Myoglobin test
Quick answer: A myoglobin test measures a protein released into the blood when muscle, including heart muscle, is damaged. It may be ordered after a serious muscle injury, crush injury or very heavy exercise, or occasionally with other heart tests.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You are often tested in an emergency or ward setting
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3Blood is collected into a tube
- 4The test may be repeated, and urine may also be checked for myoglobin
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs, so compare your result with the range printed on your report and discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with muscle damage from injury, crush injury, very hard exercise, seizures, some medicines or muscle diseases, and very high levels can harm the kidneys. It can also rise early after heart muscle damage, though troponin is the main heart test.
Who usually has this test
People with serious muscle injury, crush injury, extreme exercise, or unexplained muscle pain with dark urine.
Risks and aftercare
A small bruise is possible; if muscle damage is found, you may be asked to drink extra fluids or be given fluids in hospital.
Names and options
Also called: serum myoglobin
Listed by the hospital as
- MYOGLOBIN, SERUM
Questions about this test
What is rhabdomyolysis?
Rhabdomyolysis is a breakdown of muscle that releases myoglobin into the blood. It can follow injury, extreme exercise, heat illness or some medicines, and can cause muscle pain, weakness and dark urine. It needs prompt treatment to protect the kidneys.
Is myoglobin used to check for a heart attack?
Myoglobin rises early after heart muscle damage, but it also rises with any muscle injury. Troponin is now the main test for heart attack, and myoglobin is used less for this.
Can exercise raise myoglobin?
Yes. Very hard or unaccustomed exercise can raise myoglobin. If you have severe muscle pain or dark urine after exercise, seek medical advice.
Related tests
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.