What Are These Blood Markers?

Your blood can tell you a lot about your heart risk. Four markers: hs-CRP, Lp(a), Troponin, and NT-proBNP can help spot problems early.

Additional important biomarkers include: fibrinogen, Lp-PLA2, myeloperoxidase, F2-isoprostane, microalbumin-creatinine ratio, and galectin-3.

These markers show signs of:

  • Plaque
  • Inflammation
  • Damage to heart muscle
  • Trouble with heart function

Doctors use them during heart checks, treatment planning, and after chest pain or stroke symptoms.

What Is hs-CRP?

hs-CRP stands for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. It checks for inflammation in the blood vessels. A high level may mean plaque is active or your arteries are irritated. This can raise your chance of heart attack or stroke.

Even with normal cholesterol, high hs-CRP could still mean risk.

What Is Lp(a)?

Lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a) is a type of cholesterol that runs in families. It sticks to artery walls and speeds up plaque buildup. Most people don’t know their level unless they get a special test.

If your Lp(a) is high, your heart risk may be higher. Especially if you also have high LDL or blood pressure.

What Is Troponin?

Troponin is a protein released when the heart muscle gets damaged. This test is used to check for heart attacks. But high troponin levels with no heart attack can still mean stress or strain on the heart.

Doctors also check troponin in heart failure, especially when paired with shortness of breath or low oxygen.

What Is NT-proBNP?

NT-proBNP shows how well your heart is pumping. When the heart gets stretched or weak, NT-proBNP levels rise. It’s often used in heart failure and ejection fraction checks.

This marker can help when you’re dealing with:

  • Low ejection fraction
  • Trouble breathing
  • Swelling in the legs
  • Reduced ejection fraction treatment
hs-CRP, Lp(a), Troponin, NT-proBNP

How Do These Tests Compare to Imaging?

These markers give insight that scans can’t always show. But they work best when combined with tools like:

Together, these form a complete look at heart health.

This is where BaleDoneen Method can help.

We at BaleDoneen, check all these markers and match them with your history, symptoms, and other test results. This gives a full view of your heart risk before major problems begin.

Signs You May Need These Tests

You may need these markers if:

  • You had chest pain or heart symptoms
  • Your EKG detect blockage was unclear
  • You have NSTEMI vs STEMI ECG signs
  • You have a strong family history
  • You want advanced cardiovascular testing that looks at more than just cholesterol

Even if your basic numbers look fine, deeper tests can show hidden risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hs-CRP in heart failure?

What does a high level of NT-proBNP mean?

What is a troponin CRP blood test?

What is the difference between NT-proBNP and Troponin?