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Test Code MetHB Methaemoglobin

Important Note

Therapeutic levels (1 mg/mL and 2 mg/mL) of Hydroxocobalamin may interfere with MHB assay. Do not expose specimen to air. Specimen should be completely without air bubbles. Mix sample well to prevent clotting. Chill specimen and send to laboratory immediately.

Laboratory Code

LAB91

Specimen Requirements

Preferred

Specimen Type: Whole Blood
Container/Tube: Heparinised Syringe
Volume: 3.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 1.0 mL
Collection Instructions: Collect sample in heparinized syringe, seal and mix well to prevent clotting. Send sample on ice to laboratory immediately.

 

Acceptable

Specimen Type: Whole Blood
Container/Tube: Capillary Tube (Blood Gas)
Volume: 180.0 uL
Minimum Volume: 180.0 uL
Collection Instructions: Mix well to prevent clotting. Send sample on ice to laboratory immediately (to arrive within 5 mins.)

Specimen Stability

Specimen Type Whole Blood
Ambient Reject
Refrigerate 5 mins (ice slurry)
Frozen Reject

Methodology

CO-oximetry

Days and Times Performed

24 hrs, TAT 1 day

Specimen Condition

Haemolysis Not applicable
Icterus Not applicable
Lipaemia Not applicable
Others: Sample not sent in ice, sample not sealed, bubbles present in sample, clotted sample Not applicable

Reference Interval

0.0 – 2.0 %

Testing Laboratory

National University Hospital

Clinical Chemistry, 67724346

Useful For

Diagnosis of methemoglobinemia.

Service Code

32315

LOINC Code Information

2615-3

Alias

MET

Methemoglobinemia

Update

Last updated 10/03/2025