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carboxyhemoglobin in blood

Reference values: 1) non-smokers: 0.5-1.5% of hemoglobin 2) smokers (1-2 packs/day): 4-5% of hemoglobin 3) heavy smokers (> 2 packs/day): 8-9% of hemoglobin 4) toxic: > 20% of hemoglobin 5) lethal: > 50% of hemoglobin Increases: 1) smoking 2) exposure to gases: a) defective furnaces b) automobile exhaust c) coal gas d) most combustibles e) methylene chloride 3) hemolytic disease 4) blood in intestine Clinical significance: - also see carbon monoxide poisoning - levels of carbon monoxide of < 10% may increase disturbances of cognitive function or aggravate pre-existing heart disease - levels of 15-25% may cause dizziness & nausea - 1/2 life is reduced from 5 hours to 80 minutes with oxygen & to 24 minutes with hyperbaric O2 (3 atmospheres) Methods: 1) colorimetric 2) GLC Specimen: 1) whole blood (heparin) 2) stable for > 4 months in filled, well-capped tube 3) do NOT use oxalate 4) collect specimen BEFORE treatment with oxygen

Related

carbon monoxide poisoning carboxyhemoglobin

Specific

carboxyhemoglobin in cord blood

General

clinical hematology test

References

  1. Clinical Guide to Laboratory Tests, 3rd ed. Teitz ed., W.B. Saunders, 1995
  2. Mini Panel of 2 tests: Carboxyhemoglobin Quantitation . Sulfhemoglobin Laboratory Test Directory ARUP: 2005757