What lab markers fall under the category of cardiac markers?

Cardiac markers are specific proteins or substances that are released into the bloodstream when the heart is damaged or stressed, often used in diagnosing conditions such as acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) or heart failure. Troponin is particularly well-known as a highly sensitive and specific marker for cardiac injury; it consists of three proteins (troponin I, troponin T, and troponin C) that are released when the heart muscle is damaged. BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) is another important marker associated with heart failure, as its levels rise when the heart is under strain and cannot pump effectively.

These markers are pivotal in clinical settings because they help healthcare providers ascertain the likelihood of cardiac events and guide appropriate management. The other options listed encompass various markers not specific to cardiac conditions. For example, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood cells are related to general blood health, while sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium are electrolytes that help assess metabolic and renal functions. Similarly, INR, PT, and aPTT are coagulation tests used to evaluate blood clotting rather than cardiac function. Thus, troponin and BNP distinctly represent cardiac-specific markers that are essential for diagnosing heart-related issues.