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Myoglobin (Serum)

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

This test measures the level of myoglobin, a protein found in muscle tissue that helps transport oxygen. Elevated levels may indicate muscle damage or other conditions.

Quick summary

["Myoglobin levels can signal muscle injury or other health concerns—results help guide further evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105338-8
Short code
Endomysium IgG Ser Ql IF
Synonyms
Endomysium IgG Ser Ql IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order a myoglobin test to investigate symptoms like muscle pain, weakness, or unexplained fatigue. It’s also used in cases of suspected heart attack (especially if other tests like troponin are unclear) or severe muscle injuries (e.g., from trauma or exercise).

What to Expect During the Test

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick. No special preparation is needed unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

Possible Causes of Elevated Myoglobin

High myoglobin levels can result from muscle damage (e.g., from exercise, injuries, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis). It may also appear in heart-related issues like heart attacks or certain infections.

Possible Causes of Low Myoglobin

Low myoglobin levels are less common but may occur in severe muscle wasting, certain genetic disorders, or chronic kidney disease (which affects protein metabolism).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Myoglobin

Frequently asked questions

Myoglobin is a sensitive marker for muscle injury but isn’t specific to heart damage alone. It’s often used alongside other tests (like troponin) to assess risk for conditions like rhabdomyolysis or acute kidney injury, which can occur if myoglobin builds up in the bloodstream.
When might myoglobin levels be checked?
Your doctor may check myoglobin levels if you have symptoms like muscle pain, dark urine (a sign of kidney strain), or if you’ve experienced trauma, surgery, or severe exercise.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–2 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
If your myoglobin level is elevated, your doctor will likely order additional tests (like kidney function tests) or further evaluation to determine the cause. Follow their guidance closely.
  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