Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme present in the body, predominantly located in the muscles, heart, and brain. As noted by the Cleveland Clinic, CK is crucial for energy production in muscles and is often evaluated through blood tests to determine muscular health, functionality, and inflammation. The body contains three CK isoforms: CK-BB, CK-MB, and CK-MM. CK-BB is primarily found in the brain, CK-MB in heart muscle, and CK-MM in skeletal muscle, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
CK levels are generally measured in units of enzyme activity per liter of serum (U/L). Individuals may have varying CK levels, and the normal range can differ based on the lab and measurement method. Typically, for men, the normal CK range is between 55 and 170 U/L, while for women, it’s between 30 and 145 U/L (as per Testing.com). Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for interpreting CK levels, as normal values can vary due to factors like age, gender, and overall health, explains Testing.com.
What do low creatine kinase levels mean?
Various factors can lead to low CK levels, indicating different health conditions. A 1998 article in Clinical Chemistry suggests that low muscle mass or cachectic states might cause low CK levels. Cachectic syndrome, or cachexia, is linked with muscle loss and symptoms like inflammation, anorexia, and insulin resistance, as described in a 2011 article in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia, and Muscle.
According to a 2009 study in Muscle & Nerve, certain genetic conditions, such as myopathies, can also result in low CK levels. Myopathies are inherited muscle disorders that can weaken muscles and cause pain, notes the Cleveland Clinic.
Interestingly, a 2009 study in Clinical Autonomic Research found a correlation between low CK levels and a higher incidence of fainting.
Additionally, a 1996 study in the Journal of Rheumatology noted low CK levels in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, concluding that inflammation significantly contributes to reduced CK levels.
How are low creatine kinase levels treated?
If low CK levels are detected in your blood test, your doctor might conduct further blood tests or a muscle biopsy. They may also consider other factors, like symptoms and medical history, to identify the cause and make a diagnosis.
The treatment for low creatine kinase (CK) levels depends on the underlying cause. If myopathy is responsible for low CK levels, your doctor will determine the appropriate course of action. As indicated by the Cleveland Clinic, physical and occupational therapy are typically employed to enhance muscle strength and functionality. Medications like corticosteroids may be administered to alleviate inflammation and pain.
When low CK levels result from cachexia, there is currently no specific treatment, according to Healthline. The source explains that therapy, including exercise, dietary modifications, and appetite stimulants, is the current method of managing the condition.
