Hemoglobin
Test Code
510
85018
CPT Code is subject to a Medicare Limited Coverage Policy and may require a signed ABN when ordering.
Clinical Significance
Hemoglobin - Usual method for determining anemia. Used to calculate indices.
Test Resources
Test Details
Methodology
Electronic Cell Sizing and Counting/Cytometry/Microscopy
Reference Range(s)
See Laboratory Report
Alternative Name(s)
Hgb
Preferred Specimen(s)
Whole blood from a full EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Alternative Specimen(s)
Whole blood from a full EDTA (tan-top) tube
Minimum Volume
Microtainer 0.5 mL • 1 mL whole blood EDTA tube
Collection Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature. Do not refrigerate. If multiple draw, collect EDTA (lavender-top) tube last. Traumatic draw can introduce thromboplastin and trap WBC and platelets. Refrigeration can precipitate fibrin and trap WBC and platelets.
Note: If drawn with lead testing, EDTA (tan-top) is required.
Transport Container
EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Transport Temperature
Room temperature
Specimen Stability
- Room temperature: 48 hours
- Refrigerated: 48 hours (may cause platelet clumping)
- Frozen: Unstable
Reject Criteria
Gross hemolysis • Clotted • Received frozen
Setup Schedule
Whole blood from a full EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Whole blood from a full EDTA (tan-top) tube
Microtainer 0.5 mL • 1 mL whole blood EDTA tube
Maintain specimen at room temperature. Do not refrigerate. If multiple draw, collect EDTA (lavender-top) tube last. Traumatic draw can introduce thromboplastin and trap WBC and platelets. Refrigeration can precipitate fibrin and trap WBC and platelets.
Note: If drawn with lead testing, EDTA (tan-top) is required.
Note: If drawn with lead testing, EDTA (tan-top) is required.
EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Room temperature
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 48 hours (may cause platelet clumping)
Frozen: Unstable
Refrigerated: 48 hours (may cause platelet clumping)
Frozen: Unstable
Gross hemolysis • Clotted • Received frozen