Troponin (Heart Attack Test)
Also known as: Troponin I, Troponin T, hs-troponin, troponin test, dil ke dore ka test
Troponin is a protein released into the blood when heart muscle is damaged. Modern high-sensitivity tests can detect very small amounts.
Why it's ordered
In hospital, to diagnose or rule out a heart attack in people with chest pain or other warning symptoms.
Preparation
No preparation. Chest pain is an emergency: go to hospital or call 1122. Do not go to a lab first for this test.
Typical adult values
| Normal | below the lab's cut-off (the 99th percentile for that test; it differs between test brands) |
|---|
Ranges vary between labs and methods. Always use the range printed on your report.
If it's high
A raised troponin shows heart muscle damage. Doctors look at whether it rises or falls on a repeat test 1–3 hours later, together with the ECG and symptoms, to decide if it is a heart attack.
If it's low
A normal troponin on the repeat test, with a normal ECG, makes a heart attack much less likely, but the doctor decides.
Good to know
Troponin can also be raised without a heart attack, for example with kidney disease, heart muscle inflammation, a clot in the lung or severe infection. Results from different test brands cannot be compared directly, so use the same lab for repeat tests when possible.
Common questions
Should I get a troponin test at a lab if I have chest pain?
No. Chest pain is an emergency: go to hospital or call 1122. Do not go to a lab first for this test.
Why is troponin repeated?
Doctors look at whether it rises or falls on a repeat test 1–3 hours later, together with the ECG and symptoms, to decide if it is a heart attack.
Can troponin be high without a heart attack?
Yes, for example with kidney disease, heart muscle inflammation, a clot in the lung or severe infection.
What is a normal troponin?
Below the lab's cut-off, which differs between test brands. Always use the range printed on your report.