Hemoglobin/Hematocrit
CPT Code(s):
85018, 85014
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Whole Blood
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Lavender Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Whole blood collected in lavender EDTA tube; inverted several times to mix blood with anticoagulant.
Rejection Criteria:
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; tube not filled with minimum volume; improper labeling; transfer tubes with whole blood; specimen received with plasma removed (plasma is used for other testing)
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
24 hours
Refrigerated:
48 hours
Frozen:
Unacceptable
Clinical Significance
The Hemoglobin/Hematocrit (Hb/Hct) test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in evaluating the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit in the blood. It provides valuable information about the patient's red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and overall oxygen-carrying capacity.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Hemoglobin/Hematocrit test include:
1. Anemia Assessment: The Hemoglobin/Hematocrit test is commonly used to assess the presence and severity of anemia. Anemia is characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin. The test helps healthcare providers identify anemia and determine the underlying cause, such as iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, chronic diseases, or genetic disorders.
2. Blood Loss Assessment: The Hemoglobin/Hematocrit test is useful in evaluating the extent of blood loss, such as from trauma, surgery, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Significant blood loss can lead to decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Serial measurements of hemoglobin and hematocrit help monitor blood loss, guide transfusion decisions, and assess the effectiveness of interventions to manage and correct the blood loss.
3. Oxygen-Carrying Capacity Evaluation: Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to various tissues and organs in the body. The Hemoglobin/Hematocrit test provides important information about the patient's oxygen-carrying capacity. Low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels may indicate reduced oxygen delivery, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and weakness.
4. Polycythemia Evaluation: Conversely, high hemoglobin and hematocrit levels may indicate polycythemia, a condition characterized by an excessive increase in RBCs. Polycythemia can occur due to factors such as dehydration, chronic hypoxia, smoking, bone marrow disorders, or certain genetic mutations. The Hemoglobin/Hematocrit test helps identify polycythemia and assists in determining the underlying cause for further investigation and management.
5. Monitoring Disease Progression and Treatment Response: Serial measurements of hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are performed to monitor disease progression and assess the response to treatment in various medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, certain cancers, and hematological disorders. Changes in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels over time provide insights into the effectiveness of therapy, disease control, and the need for intervention.
6. Evaluation of Overall Health Status: The Hemoglobin/Hematocrit test is often included as part of a complete blood count (CBC) or basic metabolic panel to assess the patient's overall health status. Abnormal hemoglobin and hematocrit values can indicate underlying medical conditions or the need for further diagnostic testing. It provides valuable information to healthcare providers for evaluating the patient's overall health and guiding further investigations and treatment plans.
It is important to note that the interpretation of hemoglobin and hematocrit values should consider various factors such as age, sex, altitude, smoking status, and individual patient characteristics. Reference ranges may vary depending on the laboratory and patient population.
In summary, the Hemoglobin/Hematocrit test has specific clinical significance in assessing anemia, evaluating blood loss, assessing oxygen-carrying capacity, evaluating polycythemia, monitoring disease progression and treatment response, and providing insights into overall health status. By measuring hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in the blood, this test assists in diagnosing and managing various medical conditions related to blood disorders and oxygenation.