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Myoglobin

What Is Myoglobin?

Myoglobin is a protein found primarily in muscle cells, where it plays a vital role in storing and transporting oxygen within the muscle tissue.

How Myoglobin Is Released

When muscle tissue is damaged—such as in muscle injury or rhabdomyolysis—myoglobin is released into the bloodstream.

Purpose of the Myoglobin Test

The myoglobin test measures the concentration of myoglobin in the blood and serves as a marker for muscle damage.

Timing of Elevated Levels

Myoglobin levels can rise within hours of muscle injury and may stay elevated for several days, depending on the severity of the damage.

Clinical Uses of the Test

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Commonly used to diagnose and monitor AKI resulting from excess myoglobin in the bloodstream

Muscle Damage Conditions: Helps detect conditions involving muscle injury, including myocardial infarction (heart attack), trauma, and muscle diseases such as muscular dystrophy

Limitations of the Test

Although helpful, myoglobin is not specific to any one medical condition. Elevated levels can also occur in:

Renal failure

Pulmonary embolism

Certain cancers

Interpreting Results

Because myoglobin can be elevated in a range of disorders, test results should always be interpreted alongside other clinical findings. Additional diagnostic tests may be required to confirm the underlying cause.

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