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Serum or plasma mass concentration of a specific protein marker (likely related to cardiac troponin or myoglobin, given common cardiac biomarker testing conventions)

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

This test measures the amount of a protein in your blood, which may help assess damage to heart muscle or muscle tissue.

Quick summary

["This test can help diagnose conditions affecting your heart or muscles."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68919-0
Short code
GH 15M p Exc SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH 15M p Exc SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

What Does This Test Measure?

This test detects a protein released into the bloodstream when heart muscle or skeletal muscle is damaged. The protein’s presence and level can indicate whether tissue injury has occurred, such as from a heart attack, heart strain, or muscle injury.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or muscle weakness, or if you’re at risk for heart disease or muscle disorders. It can also be used to monitor conditions like heart attacks, heart failure, or muscle diseases.

When Will You Get Results?

Results typically arrive within 24 to 48 hours, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated levels may suggest recent heart damage (e.g., a heart attack), severe muscle injury, or conditions like myocarditis or rhabdomyolysis. Low or normal levels don’t rule out injury entirely, as some damage may not release detectable protein immediately.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for the protein to appear in my blood after injury?
The protein may take hours to days to reach detectable levels after injury, depending on the type of tissue affected. Some injuries may not show results immediately, so follow-up testing may be needed.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Most cardiac biomarker tests require fasting for 8–12 hours before drawing blood. Follow your provider’s specific instructions to ensure accurate results.
Will I feel any pain or discomfort during the blood draw?
You may feel a slight pinch or sting during the blood draw, but it usually doesn’t cause long-term discomfort. Most people tolerate it well, and the process takes only a few minutes.
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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