Skip to content

Myoglobin, Serum/plasma Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of myoglobin, a protein found in muscle cells, in your blood. Myoglobin helps release oxygen to muscles during exercise or injury.

Quick summary

["Myoglobin can signal muscle damage or heart-related issues when elevated."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36013-1
Short code
MR Hip
Synonyms
MR Hip
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr
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 Might This Test Be Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for muscle injuries (such as from overexertion, trauma, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis), or to evaluate symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or weakness that could indicate heart problems. It can also help diagnose conditions affecting muscle or heart function.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have blood drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re having symptoms like muscle pain or heart-related issues, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Test Results Mean

Elevated levels of myoglobin may suggest muscle damage or heart injury, but results alone don’t diagnose a condition. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results for a full evaluation.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High levels of myoglobin can occur due to muscle injuries (e.g., from exercise, falls, or muscle disorders), heart attacks, or conditions like kidney problems (since myoglobin is filtered by the kidneys). Low levels are less common but may occur with severe muscle wasting or certain genetic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Myoglobin Level

Frequently asked questions

How soon after injury or symptoms should I get this test?
Myoglobin levels can rise within hours after muscle damage or heart stress. If you suspect an injury or have symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained muscle weakness, ask your doctor about timing for this test.
Can I take anything to lower my myoglobin levels before the test?
There’s no specific way to lower myoglobin levels before testing. Avoid intense exercise or activities that could cause muscle damage if your doctor advises it, but this depends on your symptoms and medical history.
Will this test be repeated if my results are abnormal?
Yes, your doctor may order follow-up tests or repeat this test to monitor your condition. Additional tests (like cardiac enzymes or imaging) may also be needed to determine the cause of abnormal results.
  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