Does hemolysis in blood samples affect myocardial enzyme test results?
Myocardial injury markers, including myoglobin, creatine kinase isoenzymes, and troponin, may not be directly affected. Ideally, simple hemolysis of blood specimens does not directly impact the test results of these markers. These markers are primarily released by cardiomyocytes and theoretically do not have direct cross-reactivity with substances produced by hemolysis.
If myocardial injury markers are tested simultaneously with hemolysis, the results may be affected. Metabolites released during hemolysis may cross-react with myocardial injury markers, leading to inaccurate test results. This interference may cause falsely elevated or reduced myocardial enzyme levels, thereby affecting the assessment of the condition. Before undergoing myocardial enzyme testing, patients should inform their doctors if hemolysis exists. If there is no hemolysis, the test results are usually reliable. However, if hemolysis is present, it may be necessary to address the cause of hemolysis first and perform myocardial injury marker testing after the condition stabilizes. This preventive measure helps ensure the accuracy of test results and provides a reliable basis for clinical diagnosis.
The impact of hemolysis on myocardial enzyme test results depends on specific testing conditions and the degree of hemolysis. To obtain accurate diagnostic results, patients and doctors need to communicate closely to ensure the quality of blood specimens and the stability of testing conditions. This not only aids in accurately diagnosing heart diseases but also avoids unnecessary misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis.
