Myoglobin
Myoglobin is a protein found in heart tissue and other muscles. It helps trap oxygen in the muscle cells so that the muscles can work properly.
Myoglobin levels in the blood rise after a serious injury, such as a heart attack or a burn.
Strenuous exercise, an injury to a muscle, or an injection into the muscle can cause myoglobin levels to go up. Myoglobin levels also are high in people who have kidney failure, because myoglobin is removed from the blood by the kidneys.
Why is a myoglobin test done?
The myoglobin test is used to look for disease or injury of muscle tissue. The urine test can help check for rhabdomyolysis.
How is a myoglobin blood test done?
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
How do you prepare for a myoglobin test?
In general, there’s nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.
What do the results of a myoglobin test mean?
Each lab has a different range for what’s normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn’t in the normal range may still be normal for you.
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