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Serum or plasma concentration of oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO₂)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of oxygen-bound hemoglobin in your blood, which helps assess how well oxygen is being carried to your body’s tissues.

Quick summary

["Helps evaluate oxygen transport efficiency in your bloodstream."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10248-3
Short code
O2 Ct SVC-sCnc
Synonyms
O2 Ct SVC-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

What Does This Test Measure?

Oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO₂) is the form of hemoglobin that carries oxygen from your lungs to other parts of your body. This test quantifies the concentration of this oxygen-bound hemoglobin in your blood, typically drawn from a vein (serum/plasma).

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting oxygen delivery, such as anemia, lung disorders, or blood flow issues. It can also be part of broader evaluations for conditions like heart disease or severe infections.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small sample of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, where the oxygenated hemoglobin concentration is measured using a specialized laboratory technique, often immunoassay or similar methods.

What Do Results Mean?

Results provide a quantitative measure of HbO₂ concentration, though reference ranges vary by lab and patient factors. Abnormal levels may indicate insufficient oxygen transport or other underlying health concerns.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Oxygenated hemoglobin level

Frequently asked questions

How can abnormal results affect my health?
Low levels of oxygenated hemoglobin may suggest conditions like severe anemia, lung disease, or poor circulation, while very high levels could indicate polycythemia (excess red blood cells) or other metabolic issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
What causes changes in oxygenated hemoglobin?
Changes in HbO₂ levels can result from conditions affecting oxygen supply (e.g., lung disease, heart failure), blood production (e.g., anemia), or oxygen demand (e.g., exercise, infections). Medications, smoking, or certain medical treatments may also influence results.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your medical condition and treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will determine if regular monitoring is needed, such as for chronic lung disease, heart conditions, or other factors requiring ongoing blood assessments.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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