ASCP Clinical Chemistry

Question 1

Which enzyme is most specific for myocardial infarction when elevated?

Accepted Answer

Troponin I

Answer

Cardiac troponin I is highly specific to cardiac muscle and is the gold standard biomarker for myocardial infarction.

Question 2

A fasting glucose of 135 mg/dL on two separate occasions is diagnostic of:

Accepted Answer

Diabetes mellitus

Answer

A fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dL confirmed on two occasions meets ADA criteria for diabetes mellitus diagnosis.

Question 3

Which lipoprotein is considered 'good cholesterol' due to its role in reverse cholesterol transport?

Accepted Answer

HDL

Answer

HDL transports cholesterol from peripheral tissues back to the liver for excretion, reducing cardiovascular risk.

Question 4

The normal anion gap range is approximately:

Accepted Answer

8–12 mEq/L

Answer

The normal anion gap (Na − [Cl + HCO3]) is 8–12 mEq/L, representing unmeasured anions like albumin and phosphate.

Question 5

Hemoglobin A1c reflects average blood glucose over approximately what time period?

Accepted Answer

2–3 months

Answer

HbA1c reflects glycation of hemoglobin over the 2–3 month lifespan of red blood cells.

ASCP Practice Test