Creatine Kinase (CK), Total

This blood test is used to evaluate levels of creatine kinase (CK), an enzyme release when muscle damage occurs. The CK test can help diagnose acute heart muscle damage caused by a lack of blood supply to an area, as well as skeletal muscular damage. Creatine kinase levels are often elevated in some patients with hypothyroidism, malignant hyperthermia syndrome, rhabdomyolysis (rapid muscle tissue breakdown), and muscular diseases like muscular dystrophy. 

High CK levels can be found after trauma, surgery, and exercise.