Oxygenated Hemoglobin Concentration (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the amount of oxygen bound to hemoglobin in your blood, which helps assess how well oxygen is being delivered to your tissues.
["Understanding your oxygen-carrying capacity in blood can help identify potential issues with circulation or red blood cell function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19951-3
- Short code
- OxyHgb 8h Min % BldA
- Synonyms
- OxyHgb 8h Min % BldA
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or signs of poor oxygenation (e.g., pale skin, rapid heartbeat). It may also be used in cases of suspected anemia, lung disease, or blood disorders that affect oxygen transport.
What to Expect During the Test
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to measure the oxygenated hemoglobin levels. This is a quick and painless procedure, similar to other routine blood tests.
Sample Collection and Preparation
The test uses either serum (blood without clotting factors) or plasma (blood with clotting factors). The sample is analyzed using a specialized method to determine the precise concentration of oxygen-bound hemoglobin.
Clinical Significance
Low oxygenated hemoglobin levels may indicate conditions such as anemia, carbon monoxide poisoning, or lung diseases that impair oxygen exchange. High levels might suggest polycythemia (too many red blood cells) or other metabolic factors.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Oxy-Hgb (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
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