Test Overview
Carboxyhemoglobin-Co-oximetry
Verifying CO toxicity in cases of suspected exposure.
Normal Concentration: Non-smokers: 0 - 2%; Smokers: or= 20%.
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
Test Details
1 - 2 days
- Carboxyhemoglobin, Blood
- CO
- CO2B
- Carboxy Hemoglobin
Specimen Requirements
Collect specimen in lavender top tube. Send intact specimen refrigerated or at room temperature. Avoid exposure of sample to atmosphere.
Additional Information
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning causes anoxia because CO binds to hemoglobin with an affinity 240 times greater than that of oxygen, thus preventing delivery of oxygen to the tissues. Carboxyhemoglobin diminishes at the rate of about 15% per hour when the patient is removed from the contaminated environment. Significant levels of carboxyhemoglobin can be found in heavy smokers. Test is sent to Mayo Medical Laboratories.