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Myoglobin in Urine (24-hour collection)

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

This test measures the amount of myoglobin, a protein found in muscle tissue, over a full day in your urine. Myoglobin can leak into the bloodstream after muscle damage, such as from injury or exercise.

Quick summary

["Assesses muscle injury risk by tracking myoglobin release over 24 hours."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24702-3
Short code
MR Thigh
Synonyms
MR Thigh
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 recent muscle trauma, severe exercise, or symptoms like muscle weakness, pain, or dark urine. It helps identify muscle damage that could lead to kidney problems.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a special container. Drink plenty of water to help flush myoglobin from your system, but avoid excessive exercise or muscle-strenuous activities during this time.

What Happens During the Test?

No blood draw is needed—you simply provide a sealed 24-hour urine sample. The lab analyzes the collected urine for myoglobin levels.

What Are the Results Mean?

Elevated levels may signal recent muscle injury or stress, but results depend on your medical history and symptoms. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Myoglobin in Urine

Short name

24-Hour Urine Myoglobin

Frequently asked questions

What does a high myoglobin level mean?
High levels may indicate muscle damage from trauma, overuse, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), which can harm kidneys if untreated. Always discuss results with your doctor.
How long does it take to get results?
Results typically arrive within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you with findings.
Can I exercise before this test?
Avoid intense exercise or muscle-strenuous activities for 24 hours before collecting urine. Light activity is fine, but rest heavy lifting or vigorous workouts to prevent false elevations.
  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