LAB TEST
Abnormal hemoglobins testing
Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that moves oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and body tissues. Hemoglobin derivatives are forms of hemoglobin altered by attachment of carbon monoxide or certain drugs. High levels of hemoglobin derivatives prevent adequate transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide and cause illness. This article discusses the test used to detect and measure the amount of hemoglobin derivatives in your blood.
How the Test is Performed
The test is done using a small needle to collect a sample of blood from a vein or an artery. The sample may be collected from a vein or artery in the wrist, groin, or arm. Before blood is drawn, your health care provider may test circulation to the hand (if the wrist is the site). After the blood is drawn, pressure…
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is needed. For children, it may help to explain how the test will feel and why it is done. This may make the child feel less nervous.
How the Test will Feel
You may feel slight pain or a sting when the needle is inserted. You may also feel some throbbing at the site after the blood is drawn.
Why the Test is Performed
Carboxyhemoglobin is a hemoglobin derivative to which carbon monoxide has attached. High amounts of carboxyhemoglobin ("carbon monoxide poisoning") prevent the normal movement of oxygen and carbon dioxide by the blood. Carbon monoxide is released in the exhaust from cars, trucks, small engines, stoves, lanterns,…
Normal Results
Some levels of hemoglobin derivatives may be normal: Carboxyhemoglobin -- less than 1.5% (but may be as high as 9% in smokers) Methemoglobin -- less than 2% Sulfhemoglobin -- undetectable Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test…
What Abnormal Results Mean
High levels of hemoglobin derivatives can lead to major health problems. Carboxyhemoglobin: 10% to 20% -- symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning begin to appear 30% -- symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may be severe 50% to 80% -- potentially deadly Methemoglobin: 10% to 25% -- bluish skin color (cyanosis) 35% to…
References
Benz EJ, Ebert BL. Hemoglobin variants associated with hemolytic anemia, altered oxygen affinity, and methemoglobinemias. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice . 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 44. Marshall WJ, Lapsley M, Day A, Shipman K.…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 18/04/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.