In the recent artice in Heart 2001;85:133-142, Guidelines for the
management of patients with acute coronary syndromes without presistent ECG
ST segment elevation, values were given for Troponin T which if correct are
of some concern.
It states clearly the following.
Low risk: cTnT <0.01ug/L with low risk stress test
Intermediate risk: cTnT <0.01 ug/L with intermediate risk stress test
or cTnT 0.01 to 0.1 ug/L with low risk stress test.
High risk: cTnT >0.1 ug/L with high risk stress test.
Where did these cutoff levels come from, as most users appear to indicate
that a cTnT of <0.1 is negative.
Are we missing something here, as the lowest value stated is the lowest
detectable level quoted by Roche in their pack insert, indeed 0.03 is given
as the assays functional sensitivity.
As we are at a very advanced stage in writing local guidelines, help would
be appreciated so we do not make any silly mistakes.
Thanks,
Gary
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