3-Methyl Histidine Quantitative Serum Test

This test measures the levels of 3-Methyl histidine in your blood.

This test is helpful in diagnosing muscular disorders and assessing their severity. It may be used to

• Diagnose muscle atrophy caused by disuse or diseases such as muscular dystrophy.
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatment for muscular disorders.
• Assess nutritional status and monitor protein intake.

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have

• Symptoms suggestive of muscle weakness, such as difficulty climbing stairs or lifting objects.
• A previous diagnosis of muscular dystrophy or other muscle disorders.
• A history of prolonged immobilisation.
• Nutritional deficiencies or malabsorption syndromes that affect protein metabolism.

Low levels of 3-Methyl histidine suggest decreased protein breakdown, while high levels can indicate muscle wasting due to disuse or disease.

For this test, a healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from your arm. The procedure is quick and relatively painless. 

To prepare for this test:

• Fast for at least 8 hours before the test; only water is allowed.
• Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking before the test, as some drugs may interfere with the results.
• Please reach out to your healthcare provider for any specific requirements.

Other tests that may be ordered alongside this test include the following:

• Creatine kinase testing: This test measures the levels of an enzyme that indicates muscle damage or injury.
• Electromyography (EMG): This evaluates nerve and muscle function.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This images the body to detect muscle abnormalities.

3MH test or 3-MH quantitative test

Muscular dystrophy is a group of disorders characterised by progressive muscle weakness and wasting due to a genetic mutation. Symptoms usually begin in childhood and worsen over time, leading to difficulty walking, standing, and performing daily activities.

The 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test is a diagnostic tool that measures the levels of 3-Methyl Histidine in the blood. It is primarily used to assess muscle protein breakdown and turnover, providing valuable insights into various physiological and pathological conditions.

Yes, some labs including Metropolis offer home sample collection for the 3-Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test

The normal levels of 3-Methyl Histidine in human blood plasma range from 0.0 to 5.9 micromolar (μM), with an average concentration of approximately 2.85 μM. Elevated levels may indicate increased muscle protein breakdown.

The 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test is used to assess muscle protein breakdown and turnover. It is particularly useful in conditions involving muscle injury, intense physical exercise, or chronic diseases leading to muscle catabolism.

The frequency of testing for the 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test depends on the clinical context and the specific condition being monitored. It is typically done as needed based on medical evaluation and not as a routine test.

The 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test can be done at any time of the day. However, it is advisable to follow the fasting instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure accurate results.

No fasting is required before undergoing the 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test.

Before getting tested for the 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test, patients should avoid using thrombin-activated tubes for blood collection. It is also important to ensure that the specimen is handled according to the laboratory's instructions to maintain sample integrity.

The primary parameter included in the 3-Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test is the concentration of 3-Methyl Histidine in the serum. This value provides valuable information about the rate of skeletal muscle protein breakdown.

The 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test should be done based on clinical indications, such as monitoring muscle catabolism in chronic diseases, assessing muscle injury, or evaluating the effects of intense physical exercise. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate timing for the test.

The collection process for the 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test is quick, similar to other blood tests. However, the time required for laboratory analysis can vary but is generally completed within a few days.

The reports for the 3 Methyl Histidine Quantitative serum test are usually available within a week, depending on the day/time of sample collection and processing time and workload of the lab. In some cases, if the 24-hour urine volume is provided, the results might be expressed differently (e.g., µmol/day).