Oxygenated hemoglobin mass fraction in red blood cells (HbO₂ mass fraction)
This test measures the proportion of hemoglobin in your red blood cells that is bound to oxygen. It helps assess how well oxygen is being carried through your bloodstream.
["This test evaluates oxygen saturation efficiency in red blood cells."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30369-3
- Short code
- OxyHgb MFr BldCoV
- Synonyms
- OxyHgb MFr BldCoV
- 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 request this test if they suspect conditions like anemia, lung disorders, or circulation issues that could affect oxygen transport. It can also be part of broader evaluations for chronic diseases or during pregnancy.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re pregnant or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know beforehand.
How the Test Works
Blood is collected and analyzed to determine the mass fraction of oxygen-bound hemoglobin. Advanced lab techniques measure the precise concentration of oxygenated hemoglobin relative to total hemoglobin.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to reference ranges for your age, sex, and overall health. Lower-than-expected values may indicate poor oxygen delivery, while higher values could suggest conditions like polycythemia (excess red blood cells).
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
HbO₂ mass fraction
Frequently asked questions
This test is particularly useful in diagnosing or monitoring conditions affecting oxygen transport, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe anemia, or carbon monoxide poisoning. It can also help guide treatment decisions for patients with suspected vascular or metabolic disorders.
An abnormal result may signal that your body isn’t efficiently transporting oxygen, which could be due to lung disease, heart problems, or other systemic conditions. Your provider will discuss the findings with you and may recommend further testing or adjustments to your treatment plan.
The frequency depends on your health status and why the test was ordered. Some patients may need it annually or more often if they have chronic conditions like COPD or anemia. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.
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