Methemoglobin and Sulfhemoglobin, Blood
Use
This test is useful for diagnosing methemoglobinemia and sulfhemoglobinemia, as well as identifying cyanosis due to other causes such as congenital heart disease. Methemoglobinemia, with or without sulfhemoglobinemia, is often encountered as a result of medication administration or ingestion of nitrites or nitrates. Congenital forms are rare and can result from methemoglobin reductase deficiency or intrinsic hemoglobin structural disorders. Treatment typically involves methylene blue or ascorbic acid. Sulfhemoglobinemia often accompanies methemoglobinemia, with no specific treatment available focused on reversing methemoglobinemia.
Special Instructions
Shipping instructions indicate the specimen must arrive within 72 hours of collection. The patient's age is required for the test request. Complete and send a Benign Hematology Test Request Form if not ordering electronically.
Limitations
Methemoglobin is unstable, reducing to hemoglobin at a fast rate during storage, which might affect diagnosis of mild methemoglobinemia in stored specimens. However, significant levels will still be present. Sulfhemoglobin remains stable in stored specimens. Methemoglobinemia concentrations could be higher in acquired cases, requiring caution in results interpretation.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 98902-0
- 2614-6
- 4685-4
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
Full tube
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Lavender top (EDTA)
Collection Instructions
Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.
Patient Preparation
Patient's age is required.
Storage Instructions
Specimen must arrive within 72 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |