Myoglobin in Serum (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of myoglobin, a protein found in muscle cells, in your blood serum. Myoglobin helps release oxygen to muscles during intense exercise or injury.
["Myoglobin levels can help diagnose muscle damage or conditions affecting oxygen delivery in muscles."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 83106-5
- Short code
- Myoglobin SerPl IA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Myoglobin SerPl IA-mCnc
- 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
- ia
- 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle pain, weakness, or cramping—especially after exercise, trauma, or conditions like rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown). It may also be checked in cases of suspected heart attack (though it’s not specific to cardiac events) or other muscle 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 on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted based on your symptoms, medical history, and other tests. Elevated levels may suggest muscle injury, inflammation, or conditions like myoglobinuria (myoglobin in urine), which can lead to kidney problems if severe.
Common Conditions Linked to Myoglobin Levels
High levels can occur with muscle injuries (e.g., strains, fractures), certain medications (e.g., statins), or metabolic disorders. Low levels are rare but may indicate muscle wasting or certain genetic conditions.
Reference range
Adult males: 20-70 μg/L; Females: 25-58 μg/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated myoglobin levels often prompt further testing, such as urine analysis for myoglobin or kidney function checks, to rule out complications like kidney failure. Your provider will guide next steps based on your overall health and test results.
Short name
Myoglobin Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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