Oxygenated hemoglobin mass concentration in whole blood
This test measures the amount of oxygen-bound hemoglobin in your blood, which reflects how well oxygen is being carried from your lungs to other parts of your body.
["Helps assess oxygen delivery efficiency in blood samples."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71839-5
- Short code
- OxyHgb MFr.DF BldA
- Synonyms
- OxyHgb MFr.DF 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
What This Test Measures
Oxygenated hemoglobin (oxyHb) is the form of hemoglobin that carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues. This test quantifies its concentration in whole blood, often used in conjunction with other hemoglobin measurements (e.g., deoxygenated hemoglobin or total hemoglobin) to evaluate oxygen transport dynamics.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or signs of poor oxygenation (e.g., cyanosis). It can also be part of broader evaluations for conditions affecting blood oxygenation, such as anemia, respiratory disorders, or blood disorders.
Common Uses and Considerations
This test is less commonly standalone but may be used in specialized settings, such as monitoring patients with chronic lung diseases, severe anemia, or during procedures requiring precise blood oxygen assessment (e.g., certain surgical or critical care scenarios). Specimen collection typically involves drawing blood, and results are often interpreted alongside other hemoglobin-related tests.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but inform your provider about any medications (e.g., blood thinners) or recent illnesses that might affect blood samples. Avoid strenuous activity 24 hours before testing if instructed.
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.
Changes in oxyHb concentration can indicate underlying issues like severe anemia, carbon monoxide poisoning, or conditions affecting oxygen binding (e.g., metabolic acidosis). While less frequently used than total hemoglobin tests, it may provide additional context for diagnosing or managing complex cases requiring detailed blood gas analysis.
Short name
OxyHb (Mass Concentration)
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have anemia?
How long will I need to wait for results?
Can I fast before 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