Hemoglobin
Sample Type
Blood
Tube Type
EDTA Tube
Fasting Required
No
Lab
Serum
Overview
Hemoglobin (Hb) is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells (RBCs) responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to body tissues and returning carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs. The hemoglobin test is commonly used to:
Evaluate anemia or polycythemia
Monitor chronic conditions (kidney disease, cancer, etc.)
Assess general health in routine examinations
This test is often part of a Complete Blood Count (CBC) panel.
Test Result Interpretation
Hemoglobin Level | Reference Range | Interpretation | Possible Causes |
|---|---|---|---|
Low (Anemia) | < 13.0 g/dL (men) < 12.0 g/dL (women) < 11.0 g/dL (pregnant women) < 11.0 g/dL (children) | Anemia (reduced oxygen-carrying capacity) | Iron deficiency, blood loss, chronic disease, vitamin B12/folate deficiency, bone marrow suppression |
Normal | 13.0 – 17.0 g/dL (men) 12.0 – 15.5 g/dL (women) 11.0 – 14.0 g/dL (children) | Normal oxygen transport | Healthy red cell production |
High (Polycythemia) | > 17.5 g/dL (men) > 15.5 g/dL (women) | Polycythemia (increased oxygen-carrying capacity) | Dehydration, high altitude, smoking, chronic lung disease, polycythemia vera |
Risk Assessment
Low hemoglobin (anemia) can cause fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, dizziness.
High hemoglobin may increase risk of clotting and cardiovascular events.
A single abnormal result should be evaluated with supporting tests like:
RBC count
Hematocrit (Hct)
Iron studies
Vitamin B12/Folate levels
Renal function tests