Skip to content

Myoglobin in Serum (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of myoglobin, a protein found in muscle tissue, in your blood serum. Myoglobin helps release oxygen to muscles during exercise or injury.

Quick summary

["Myoglobin levels can indicate muscle damage or other conditions affecting oxygen delivery in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56887-3
Short code
Myoglobin SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Myoglobin SerPl-sCnc
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
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 healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like muscle pain, weakness, or unexplained fatigue, especially if you’ve experienced recent trauma, exercise, or muscle injury. It can also help diagnose conditions such as rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) or rule out other causes of muscle-related issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if instructed by your provider. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as they could affect results.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure myoglobin concentration.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to a reference range for your age and health status. Elevated levels may suggest muscle damage, inflammation, or other conditions affecting muscle function. Your provider will discuss the results with you in detail.

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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Myoglobin Serum

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
High levels of myoglobin can be caused by muscle injuries (e.g., strains, bruises, or severe exercise), conditions like rhabdomyolysis (from drugs, toxins, or prolonged immobility), or certain infections or metabolic disorders. Low levels are less commonly evaluated but may occur in rare genetic conditions or severe muscle wasting.
How Long Until I Get Results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will contact you once they are ready for review.
Can I Take Anything Before or After the Test?
Avoid strenuous exercise or muscle-strenuous activities for 24 hours before the test to prevent artificially high results. If you have a history of bleeding disorders or take blood thinners, inform your provider beforehand.
  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