Carboxyhaemoglobin
Code:
CARHB
Sample Type:
Blood Gas (Arterial Blood in Heparinised Syringe) or Whole blood EDTA (Purple Top)
Minimum volume: 1 mL
Ref Ranges/Units:
0.0 – 0.5%
Turnaround:
Within 30 minutes of receipt.
Special Precautions/Comments:
Additional Information:
Carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) is formed when carbon monoxide (CO) binds to haemoglobin. It is measured in the investigation of CO poisoning, such as in cases of smoke inhalation.
Carboxyhaemoglobin can also be increased in smokers (up to 9%).
South of Tyne & Wear Pathology Centre
