Methemoglobin

Message

Performing Lab: Regions

Test Code

3623

Alias/See Also

Sunquest: METHB

CPT Codes
83050

Preferred Specimen

1.0 mL Heparinized Whole Blood (Blood Gas Syringe)

Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Lithium Heparin (light green-top) on ICE, Heparinized Capillary

Instructions

Samples should be free of air bubbles, received on ice slush and run immediately. (Exceptions to the ice slush are samples received via the pneumatic tube system, as long as they are received within 30 minutes of collection.)

HP Clinics & Sartell - order CAI to Quest

Transport Container

Blood Gas Syringe

Transport Temperature

Ice Slush

Specimen Stability

Ice Slush: 1 hour
Room Temperature: 30 minutes

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Room Temperature >30 minutes

Methodology
CO-Oximetry

FDA Status
Approved

Setup Schedule

Daily

Report Available

Same Day

Reference Range

0.0 - 3.0%

Clinical Significance

Methemoglobin (MetHb), which is sometimes known as hemoglobin Hi, is hemoglobin whose iron is oxidized to its ferric state and is unable to bind oxygen. High methemoglobin concentrations, a condition called methemoglobinemia, can produce hypoxia and cyanosis. Methemoglobinemia can be the result of hereditary conditions or of exposure to toxic substances such as nitrates, nitrites, aniline dyes and their derivatives and topical anesthetics such as benzocaine.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.