Myoglobin is a protein found in heart tissue and other muscles. It is released into the blood after damage to the heart or other muscles. Damage can occur from a serious event such as a heart attack or a burn.
Myoglobin can be checked with a blood test or a urine test. Levels in the blood will increase within about 3 hours after the damage. Myoglobin can be found in urine for several days.
The myoglobin test is used to look for disease or injury of muscle tissue. The urine test can help check for rhabdomyolysis.
In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
You will need a clock that measures time in seconds. You will also need wipes or towelettes to clean your genital area before you collect a urine sample.
If the container has a lid, remove the lid and set it down with the inner surface up.
After the urine has flowed for several seconds, place the collection container in the stream. Collect about 60 mL (2 fl oz) of this "midstream" urine without stopping the flow. Don't touch the rim of the container to your genital area.
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
This test usually doesn't cause any pain or discomfort.
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
There are no known risks from having this test.
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.
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
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