Hemoglobin (Hb) concentration in whole blood, measured by a specific method (likely cyanmethemoglobin)
This test measures the amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells, which carries oxygen throughout your body. Hemoglobin levels help doctors assess your overall health, especially concerning anemia or blood disorders.
["Hemoglobin levels reflect your body’s ability to deliver oxygen efficiently."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4545-0
- Short code
- Hct VFr Bld Spun
- Synonyms
- Hct VFr Bld Spun
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 36
- Ref high
- 50
- Critical range
- 18 N/A – 60 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- spun
- CPT
- 85014
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like anemia (low red blood cells), polycythemia (high red blood cells), or other blood-related issues. It can also be part of routine check-ups or before certain medical procedures.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless. No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking.
What the Test Results Mean
Hemoglobin levels alone don’t provide a full picture of your health, but they’re a key part of blood tests. Results may be compared to standard ranges for your age, sex, and health status. Abnormal levels could signal underlying conditions that need further investigation.
Common Conditions Linked to Hemoglobin Results
Low hemoglobin (anemia) might indicate iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, chronic illness, or blood loss. High hemoglobin (polycythemia) could suggest dehydration, lung disease, or overproduction of red blood cells. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you.
Reference range
Adult males: 38-50%; Females: 36-44%N/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Hb (Cyanmethemoglobin)
Frequently asked questions
What does a low hemoglobin level mean?
How does hemoglobin change with age?
Can diet affect hemoglobin levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy