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HelpTest Code METHB Methemoglobin
Performing Laboratory
Hunterdon Medical Center Laboratory
Useful For
When the iron in hemoglobin is oxidized from its normal trivalent state, methemoglobin is formed. Methemoglobin cannot combine reversibly with oxygen, resulting in cyanosis.
Methemoglominemia is usually associated with administration of some medications, local anesthetics or following ingestion of nitrites or nitrates.
Special Instructions
Must be received refrigerated or on ice. Must be received within 4 hours.
Specimen Requirements
| Container/Tube | |
|---|---|
| Required | 2 mL Green top (Heparinized)* Refrigerated/On ice |
| Specimen Volume | 2.0mL |
| Minimum Volume | 2.0mL |
| *No Gel Tubes |
Specimen Type
Whole Blood
Specimen Transport Temperature
| Temperature | Time Frame |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated 2-8°C On Ice | 4 hours |
Specimen Stability
| Temperature | Time Frame |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated 2-8°C On Ice | 4 hours |
Reject Specimen Due To
EDTA tube collected.
Gel tube collected.
Specimen >4 hours old.
Day(s) Test Set up
Monday through Sunday
Reference Values
0.0-0.8%
Methodology
Co-Oximetry
CPT Code
83050
Loinc Code
2615-3