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24-Hour Urinary Myoglobin Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the total amount of myoglobin released into your urine over a full day. Myoglobin is a protein found in muscle tissue that helps carry oxygen.

Quick summary

["Assessing muscle injury or damage through urine myoglobin levels over 24 hours."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
32197-6
Short code
Myoglobin 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Myoglobin 24h Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
70
Critical range
— – 200 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83880
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you’ve experienced symptoms like muscle pain, weakness, or cramping—especially after intense physical activity, trauma, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis (a serious muscle breakdown). It helps identify whether your muscles are breaking down excessively, which can lead to kidney problems if myoglobin builds up in the urine.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect all your urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after you wake up. Store the urine in a refrigerator until you deliver it to the lab. Follow any specific instructions your doctor provides, such as avoiding certain medications or foods that might affect results.

What to Expect During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting your urine sample. The lab will analyze the total myoglobin content in your urine over the day to determine if levels are elevated.

What the Results Mean

Elevated levels of myoglobin in urine can signal muscle damage, such as from overexertion, injury, or certain medical conditions. Very high levels may indicate a serious condition like rhabdomyolysis, which requires prompt medical attention.

Reference range

Adult males: 20-70 μg/L; Females: 25-58 μg/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Myoglobin Urine (24h)

Frequently asked questions

What causes high myoglobin levels in urine?
High urinary myoglobin can result from intense or prolonged muscle activity (e.g., marathon running, heavy lifting), muscle injuries (e.g., strains, fractures), or conditions like rhabdomyolysis (a medical emergency where muscle tissue breaks down rapidly). Other rare causes may include certain medications or metabolic disorders.
What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your test results show elevated myoglobin, your doctor may recommend further evaluation to determine the cause. They could order additional tests, adjust your treatment plan, or refer you to a specialist if needed. Follow-up may include monitoring kidney function or addressing underlying muscle issues.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Dietary factors like high-protein foods or certain supplements may not typically interfere with this test, but your doctor may advise avoiding specific medications (e.g., some muscle relaxants) that could influence muscle breakdown. Always follow lab instructions for any restrictions.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy