Is low myoglobin a sign of myocarditis?

Jul 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Doctor, I just had my blood test done yesterday. May I ask if low myoglobin levels indicate myocarditis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xin

Low levels of myoglobin do not necessarily indicate myocarditis. A decrease in myoglobin levels can result from various factors, including but not limited to prolonged physical activity and malnutrition. Myoglobin is primarily found in cardiac and skeletal muscles, and its levels may rise when heart or skeletal muscle tissue is damaged. However, a low level does not necessarily mean that myocarditis or heart muscle damage is present. Therefore, a low myoglobin level alone cannot be used to directly diagnose myocarditis.

Myocarditis refers to inflammation of the heart muscle, which can be caused by viral infections, autoimmune reactions, or other factors. Confirming a diagnosis of myocarditis typically requires a comprehensive evaluation, including clinical symptoms, abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) findings, cardiac imaging studies, and elevated blood levels of cardiac enzymes (such as troponin and CK-MB). If myocarditis is suspected, a physician will perform a thorough assessment rather than relying solely on myoglobin test results.

Thus, low myoglobin levels are not a specific indicator of myocarditis and may be associated with other health conditions or physiological states. If you have concerns about your myoglobin test results, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and advice.