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Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration of Myoglobin

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

Myoglobin is a protein found in muscle tissue that carries oxygen. This test measures its amount in your blood, often checked after muscle injury or certain medical conditions.

Quick summary

["Myoglobin helps identify muscle damage or bleeding in the lungs or heart."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35978-6
Short code
MR LE-L
Synonyms
MR LE-L
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you’ve experienced muscle pain, weakness, or symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion. It can also help diagnose conditions like heart attacks, muscle injuries, or blood disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re having symptoms like muscle pain or chest discomfort, tell your healthcare provider before the test.

What the Results Mean

Elevated levels may suggest recent muscle damage, bleeding in organs, or other health issues. Low levels are less common but could indicate certain blood disorders or liver problems. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High levels can result from muscle trauma (e.g., injuries, exercise), heart attacks, lung bleeding, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis. Low levels may occur with severe anemia, liver disease, or certain genetic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test plays a key role in diagnosing acute conditions like heart attacks or severe muscle injuries, helping doctors monitor bleeding in internal organs, or assess muscle health in patients with systemic diseases.

Short name

Myoglobin Level

Frequently asked questions

What triggers a myoglobin test?
A myoglobin test is often triggered by symptoms like unexplained muscle pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion—especially if you’ve recently injured a muscle or have a history of heart or lung issues.
How soon can results be available?
Results are typically available within 1–2 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can diet or medications affect myoglobin levels?
Dietary habits or over-the-counter medications are unlikely to significantly alter myoglobin levels. However, if you’re taking blood thinners or muscle-relaxing drugs, inform your doctor before testing.
  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