Skip to content

Myoglobin (serum/plasma) – Quantitative Immunoassay

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

This test measures the amount of myoglobin, a protein in muscle cells that helps carry oxygen. High levels may signal muscle damage or other conditions.

Quick summary

["Myoglobin helps doctors assess muscle injury or other health risks by detecting protein leaks into the bloodstream."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49726-3
Short code
Endomysium IgG Titr Ser
Synonyms
Endomysium IgG Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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 Is Done

Doctors may order a myoglobin test to investigate symptoms like muscle pain, weakness, or unexplained fatigue. It’s also used in cases of suspected rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) or after trauma, surgery, or exercise. Sometimes, it helps monitor conditions like heart attacks or other emergencies where muscle damage could occur.

How the Test Works

Blood is drawn and tested for myoglobin using an immunoassay method. This detects the protein’s presence and concentration in your serum or plasma. The result helps determine if muscle damage is happening or has occurred recently.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about recent injuries, surgeries, or intense physical activity. Avoid alcohol or strenuous exercise 24 hours before testing, as these may affect results.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are reported as a concentration (e.g., micrograms per liter). Elevated levels may indicate muscle injury, heart problems, or other conditions. Low levels are usually normal, but very low results could raise questions about underlying health issues.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Myoglobin Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does a High Myoglobin Level Mean?
Elevated myoglobin can signal muscle damage (e.g., from a crash, overdose, or prolonged exercise) or conditions like rhabdomyolysis, which requires urgent medical attention. It may also appear in heart attacks or other emergencies where muscle cells break down rapidly.
What Does a Low Myoglobin Level Mean?
Low levels are typically normal, but very low results could suggest conditions like severe muscle wasting, certain genetic disorders, or rare metabolic issues. Always discuss results with your doctor.
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
This test is usually done once or twice if needed for diagnosis or monitoring. Follow your doctor’s instructions for follow-up testing, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.
  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