Myoglobin Test
Note: this site is for informational purposes only. To view test results or book a test, use the NHS app in England or contact your GP.
A myoglobin test measures the level of myoglobin, a protein released from muscle, in the blood or urine using a blood sample taken from a vein in the arm or a urine sample. It is used to help detect and monitor muscle damage, including conditions such as rhabdomyolysis or injury to heart or skeletal muscle.
Why get tested?
This test is not in routine use, it was historically used to help diagnose muscle injury but has since been replaced by the superior marker creatine kinase (CK), which is measured in blood.
When to get tested?
No longer in routine clinical use.
Sample required?
A blood sample taken from a vein in the arm or a random urine sample
Test preparation needed?
None
Common questions
Myoglobin was once the primary test to for people with suspected muscle injury. It has been replaced by creatine kinase (CK), which is more sensitive, specific and the concentration remains elevated in the bloodstream for longer following the injury.
It is no longer in routine use within the UK having been superseded by the muscle enzyme creatine kinase (CK).
A high myoglobin concentration indicates that there has been some recent muscle damage.
The excretion of myoglobin by the kidney can lead to renal failure.
Myoglobin is no longer requested in people with chest pain who are suspected of having had a heart attack, having been superseded by troponin, a test which is specific for heart muscle and which also remains elevated for longer in the bloodstream.
Myoglobin released from damaged muscle into plasma is filtered by the kidneys into the urine but can precipitate in the kidney tubules, obstructing urine formation. This is a particular risk if shock lowers blood pressure and reduces the rate of urine production. Infusion of fluid into a vein can help increase the rate of urine production and myoglobin loss therefore reducing the risk of kidney failure.