Hemoglobin (Hb) concentration in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body.
["Helps doctors assess your blood’s ability to carry oxygen and diagnose conditions like anemia or polycythemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30074-9
- Short code
- Hgb F Spec Ql
- Synonyms
- Hgb F Spec Ql
- 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
- 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 It’s Done
Doctors order this test to check if you have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen. It’s often done when you feel unusually tired, pale, or have symptoms like shortness of breath. It may also be part of routine blood work, before surgery, or to monitor conditions like heart disease or kidney problems.
What to Expect
A small needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for testing. Results are typically available within a few days.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If your hemoglobin levels are lower than expected, you might have anemia, which can be caused by iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, or other health issues. If levels are higher, it could indicate conditions like polycythemia. Your doctor will discuss your results and recommend any needed follow-up or treatments.
What It Means for Your Health
Hemoglobin levels can give important clues about your overall health. Low levels may mean your body isn’t getting enough oxygen, which can affect your energy and daily activities. High levels might suggest your body is producing too many red blood cells, which can increase your risk of blood clots.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/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.
Hemoglobin is a critical component of red blood cells, and its concentration helps determine whether your blood is functioning properly. Abnormal levels can indicate underlying health issues that need attention, such as chronic diseases, nutritional deficiencies, or blood disorders.
Short name
Hb spec
Frequently asked questions
What causes my hemoglobin levels to be different from what’s expected?
How often should I get this test?
Can I prepare for 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