when to take the blood sample

Last reviewed 01/2018

The ideal time to check for cardiac troponins is between 6 and 9 hours. Ideally one should also document an elevation in more than one sample. The assays should be performed on serum.

If the onset of symptoms is clear a sample should be taken on admission and between 6-9 hours from onset.

If the onset is indistinct, a sample should be taken on admission, 6 to 9 hours after and optionally measured further at 12 - 24 hours.

High sensitivity cardiac troponins can be taken earlier to determine if an acute myocardial infarction has occurred.

Reference:

• 1) Aldous SJ et al. Diagnostic and prognostic utility of early measurement with high-sensitivity troponin T assay in patients presenting with chest pain.CMAJ. 2012 Mar 20;184(5):E260-8