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Myoglobin, Serum

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

Myoglobin is a protein found in muscle tissue that helps deliver oxygen. This test measures its concentration in your blood.

Quick summary

["Myoglobin helps doctors assess muscle damage or heart issues quickly."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10505-6
Short code
Myoglobin Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
Synonyms
Myoglobin Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
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
Method
immune-stain
CPT
83880
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 a myoglobin test to check for conditions like muscle injuries (e.g., from trauma or overexertion), heart attacks, or other serious illnesses that can cause muscle breakdown. It’s often used alongside other tests to monitor symptoms like chest pain or weakness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes. If you’re nervous, let your doctor or phlebotomist know—some people use distractions or ice to ease discomfort.

What the Results Mean

Elevated levels may signal muscle damage, heart problems, or other conditions. Low levels alone don’t usually indicate a problem unless combined with other symptoms. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your health history and other tests.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High levels can occur after muscle injuries (e.g., strains, fractures), heart attacks, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown). Rarely, infections or certain medications may also affect myoglobin levels.

Reference range

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

Specimen: serum

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

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Myoglobin is a sensitive marker for muscle injury or heart damage. It rises quickly in the blood after trauma or stress, making it useful for early detection of conditions like myocardial infarction (heart attack) or severe muscle trauma. However, because it’s not specific to any single condition, doctors often use it alongside other tests (like troponin) for a clearer picture.

Short name

Myoglobin Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high myoglobin level usually mean?
A high myoglobin level often signals muscle damage or a heart-related issue, such as a heart attack or severe muscle injury. It can also appear in conditions like rhabdomyolysis (where muscles break down rapidly). Your doctor will review your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
Can myoglobin levels be affected by diet or exercise?
Diet and exercise can indirectly influence myoglobin levels. Heavy or intense exercise may cause temporary muscle damage, leading to slight increases. However, diet alone rarely affects myoglobin levels unless you have a muscle disorder or consume extreme amounts of protein. Always discuss any concerns with your doctor.
How long does it take to get myoglobin test results?
Results are typically available within 1–2 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Some urgent cases may get results sooner. Your doctor will contact you with the final report, usually within a week of the test.
  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