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Myoglobin in Urine (24-Hour Collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of myoglobin, a protein released from muscle cells when they are damaged, over a 24-hour period in your urine.

Quick summary

["Helps assess muscle injury or conditions affecting muscle breakdown."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110847-1
Short code
Endomysium IgA Msmt Ser
Synonyms
Endomysium IgA Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you’ve experienced symptoms like muscle pain, weakness, or cramping, especially after an injury, illness, or intense physical activity. It can also be used to monitor conditions like rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) or certain muscle diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a special container provided by your lab. Drink plenty of fluids to ensure adequate urine volume, but avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, as they may affect results.

How the Test Works

The collected urine is analyzed to measure myoglobin levels. Myoglobin is a protein that can leak into the urine when muscle cells are damaged, often due to trauma, infection, or metabolic disorders.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels may indicate muscle injury, inflammation, or a condition causing muscle breakdown. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Myoglobin in Urine

Short name

24-Hour Myoglobin Urine

Frequently asked questions

What are the normal reference ranges for this test?
Reference ranges can vary by lab and testing method. Your doctor will provide your specific results and compare them to your unique health profile. Elevated levels may signal acute muscle damage requiring medical attention.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss findings.
Can I take medications before this test?
Most medications are fine, but avoid NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) or muscle relaxants, as they may affect muscle function or myoglobin levels. Always check with your doctor before stopping any medication.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy