Urinary Immunoassay for Myoglobin

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve experienced symptoms like muscle pain, weakness, or confusion, especially after trauma, exercise, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown). It’s also used to monitor kidney function when myoglobin levels are high, as myoglobin can damage kidneys if not cleared properly.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

Elevated myoglobin in urine may indicate recent muscle injury, such as from a crash, fall, or intense exercise. It can also signal conditions like muscle diseases or kidney problems. However, results alone don’t diagnose the cause—your doctor will consider your symptoms and medical history.

What Prepares You for This Test?

No special preparation is needed for this urine test. You may collect a random urine sample, or your provider might ask for a 24-hour urine collection if monitoring kidney function. Avoid strenuous activity or muscle-stress activities 24 hours before testing if instructed.

What Happens During the Test?

You’ll provide a urine sample (often a mid-stream or random sample) to a lab. Myoglobin is detected using an immunoassay, which identifies the protein based on its unique structure. Results are usually available within a few days.