Pathology Handbook

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Methaemoglobin

Laboratory:

Clinical Biochemistry

Test Code:

BG SPEC

Specimen Types:

Blood

Container Types:

Arterial Blood Gas Syringe
Venous Blood Gas Syringe

Adults Volume or Mass:

2 mL

Collection & Request Instructions:

Of value in investigating patients with cyanosis and a normal pO₂. Levels may be raised in congenital haemoglobin M disorders and drug toxicity associated with nitrites or other oxidising agents

Transport Instructions between Sites and/or Laboratories:

Reference Range: < 2% of Total Haemoglobin

Levels may be higher in infants.

Assay Frequency:

Daily

Additional Notes:

Both Arterial and Venous Blood Gas specimens are acceptable.

Methaemoglobin is now automatically reported on every blood gas request.