Oxygenated Hemoglobin Mass Fraction in Whole Blood
This test measures the proportion of hemoglobin in your blood that is fully saturated with oxygen. It helps assess how well oxygen is being delivered to your tissues.
["Helps evaluate oxygen transport efficiency in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11559-2
- Short code
- OxyHgb MFr Bld
- Synonyms
- OxyHgb MFr Bld
- 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
What This Test Measures
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. This test specifically looks at the fraction of hemoglobin molecules that are bound to oxygen. It’s often used in conjunction with other blood oxygen measurements to understand overall oxygenation status.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or cyanosis (bluish skin), which could indicate poor oxygen delivery. It’s also used in conditions like chronic lung disease, heart failure, or during pregnancy to monitor oxygen levels.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the oxygenated hemoglobin fraction for analysis. This test is typically done on whole blood, not separated plasma or serum.
Clinical Context and Interpretation
While this test alone doesn’t provide a direct percentage of oxygen saturation (like what an oximeter does), it can be used alongside other tests to assess hemoglobin’s role in oxygen transport. Interpretation depends on clinical context, such as your symptoms, other test results, and medical history.
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.
Elevated oxygenated hemoglobin mass fraction may indicate normal oxygenation or conditions like polycythemia (too many red blood cells). Lower levels could suggest anemia, severe lung disease, or other conditions impairing oxygen delivery. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider, as they’ll consider your full medical picture.
Short name
HbO₂ Mass Fraction
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal results in this test?
Does this test require fasting?
How long does it take to get results?
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