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.