Hemoglobin measurement (qualitative or quantitative status/results)
This test evaluates the amount of hemoglobin in your blood, a protein that carries oxygen to your body’s tissues. Hemoglobin levels help doctors assess your risk of anemia or other blood-related conditions.
["Hemoglobin helps your blood carry oxygen and can indicate potential health concerns like anemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 41987-9
- Short code
- HEMOGLOBINTESTSTATUSORRESULTS
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cphs
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a hemoglobin test to check for signs of anemia (low hemoglobin), polycythemia (high hemoglobin), or other blood disorders. It can also be used during pregnancy, before surgeries, or when monitoring chronic conditions like kidney disease or heart problems.
What Does the Test Involve?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab analyzes the sample to determine hemoglobin levels, which may be reported qualitatively (yes/no) or quantitatively (exact measurement). Results help guide further medical decisions.
What Are Common Reasons for Testing?
Common reasons include diagnosing anemia, evaluating symptoms like fatigue or pale skin, checking blood counts before treatments, or monitoring conditions affecting red blood cells.
What Might Affect Results?
Factors like recent blood loss, iron deficiency, dehydration, or certain medications can influence hemoglobin levels. Pregnancy, smoking, or recent exercise may also impact results.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low hemoglobin may signal anemia, requiring additional tests or treatments (e.g., iron supplements). High hemoglobin could indicate polycythemia or dehydration. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider to understand their meaning in your specific situation.
Short name
Hemoglobin Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy