Serum Creatine Kinase-MB Isoenzyme Activity among Subjects with Uncomplicated Essential Hypertension: Any Sex
Mathias Abiodun Emokpae1, Goodluck O N A Nwagbara2,3
1Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Benin, Benin City 300283, Nigeria. mathias.emokpae@uniben.edu.
Insights
Serum creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) activity was higher in hypertensive women than men, but lower in normotensive women. Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) was also higher in hypertensive women. These findings suggest sex-specific differences in hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a significant global health issue, disproportionately affecting women and leading to severe complications.
- Understanding sex-based differences in cardiovascular markers is crucial for effective hypertension management.
- Creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) are key cardiac biomarkers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex differences in creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) activity among Nigerian adults with uncomplicated hypertension.
- To evaluate cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and lipid profiles in relation to sex and hypertension status.
- To determine if sex-specific considerations are warranted in managing hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Serum CK-MB, cTnI, and lipid profiles were measured in 140 hypertensive males, 100 hypertensive females, and 100 normotensive controls (50 males, 50 females).
- Measurements were performed using a Selectra Pros chemistry analyzer.
- Statistical comparison between sexes was conducted using the Student's t-test.
Main Results:
- Hypertensive females exhibited significantly higher mean CK-MB activity (p < 0.001) and cTnI levels (p < 0.001) compared to hypertensive males.
- Normotensive females showed significantly lower mean CK-MB activity (p < 0.001) than their male counterparts.
- No significant difference in cTnI levels was observed between normotensive males and females.
Conclusions:
- Serum CK-MB activity is elevated in female hypertensive patients compared to males.
- The findings highlight potential sex-specific differences in cardiac marker activity related to hypertension.
- Routine cardiac marker evaluation and sex-specific approaches are recommended for hypertension management.
Abstract:
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a major health challenge and more women than men are affected by the condition. Complications as a result of this condition often lead to disabilities and premature death. The objective of this study was to evaluate creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) activity in uncomplicated hypertension and to know whether sex differences exist in the activity of the enzyme. Serum creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme activity, troponin I, and lipid profile were evaluated in 140 male and 100 female Nigerians with hypertension. The control group was comprised of 100 (50 males and 50 females) normotensive subjects. Measured parameters were assayed using Selectra Pros chemistry analyzer. The means were compared between males and females using Students't-test. The mean CK-MB activity of the female hypertensive subjects was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than the males. Similarly, the mean cardiac troponin I (cTnI) of the female hypertensive subjects was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than the males. Conversely, the mean CK-MB activity of the female normotensive subjects was significantly lower (p < 0.001) than the male counterparts. There was no difference in the levels of cTnI between male and female normotensive subjects. Serum CK-MB activity was higher in female than male hypertensive subjects. In the light of these results, cardiac markers should be routinely done in the evaluation of hypertensive subjects and sex-specific consideration may be recognized in the management of these patients.
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