Hemoglobin Mass Measurement in Whole Blood
This test measures the total amount of hemoglobin—a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen—in your blood. It helps assess your blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity.
["Helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting red blood cells and oxygen transport."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109886-2
- Short code
- Hgb Msmt BldV
- Synonyms
- Hgb Msmt BldV
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- 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
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Hemoglobin is critical for delivering oxygen to your body’s tissues. Low levels can indicate anemia, blood loss, or other health issues, while high levels may suggest conditions like polycythemia. This test provides a precise measurement of your hemoglobin mass, which can complement other blood tests for better diagnosis.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is collected and analyzed using advanced techniques to determine the total hemoglobin content. This method ensures accurate results regardless of variations in red blood cell size or shape.
Common Uses
Doctors may order this test to evaluate anemia, check for blood disorders, monitor treatment effectiveness, or assess oxygen levels in conditions like chronic lung disease or heart problems.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted to draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.
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 mass measurement is particularly useful when traditional hemoglobin tests (like those measuring hemoglobin concentration) are inconclusive. It helps identify conditions where red blood cells may be abnormal in size or shape (e.g., microcytic or macrocytic anemias) but still carry normal amounts of hemoglobin.
Short name
Hemoglobin Mass Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a low or high hemoglobin mass mean?
Can diet affect 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