10 Questions
What is the primary method used by Automated Haemoglobin Analyzers to measure Hb levels?
Spectrophotometry
What is NOT a factor that can interfere with Hb estimation?
Albumin
What is the normal Hb level range for adult females?
12-16 g/dL
What is indicated by Hb levels < 12 g/dL in adult females?
Anaemia
What is the term for excessive RBC production?
Polycythaemia
What is the primary function of haemoglobin in the human body?
To carry oxygen to tissues and organs
What is the significance of haemoglobin estimation?
To monitor anaemia and underlying diseases
What is the most widely used method for haemoglobin estimation?
Cyanmethemoglobin method
What is the reaction involved in the cyanmethemoglobin method?
Formation of cyanmethemoglobin complex
What is the wavelength at which the absorbance of cyanmethemoglobin is measured?
540 nm
Study Notes
Haemoglobin Estimation
Importance of Haemoglobin Estimation
- Haemoglobin (Hb) is an essential component of red blood cells, carrying oxygen to tissues and organs.
- Hb estimation is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring anaemia, a common condition characterized by low Hb levels.
- Anaemia can lead to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, and can be a sign of underlying diseases.
Methods of Haemoglobin Estimation
1. Cyanmethemoglobin Method
- Most widely used method for Hb estimation
- Based on the formation of cyanmethemoglobin, a stable complex formed by the reaction of Hb with potassium ferricyanide and potassium cyanide
- Absorbance of the complex is measured at 540 nm using a spectrophotometer
2. Sahli's Method
- Based on the oxidation of Hb to methemoglobin, which is then measured using a spectrophotometer
- Less accurate than the cyanmethemoglobin method, but still widely used in some laboratories
3. Automated Haemoglobin Analyzers
- Use spectrophotometry or other methods to measure Hb levels in whole blood samples
- Fast and accurate, allowing for high-throughput analysis
Interfering Factors
- Presence of bilirubin, lipemia, or methemoglobin can interfere with Hb estimation
- Certain medications, such as sulfonamides, can also affect Hb levels
- Sample collection and storage conditions can impact Hb stability and accuracy
Reference Range
- Normal Hb levels: 13.5-17.5 g/dL for adult males, 12-16 g/dL for adult females
- Variation in reference ranges may occur depending on age, sex, and altitude
Clinical Significance
- Hb levels < 13 g/dL in adult males and < 12 g/dL in adult females indicate anaemia
- Hb levels > 18 g/dL in adult males and > 16 g/dL in adult females indicate polycythaemia (excessive RBC production)
Learn about the importance of haemoglobin estimation, its methods including cyanmethemoglobin, Sahli's, and automated analyzers, interfering factors, and clinical significance. Test your knowledge of haemoglobin estimation and its application in diagnosing anaemia and other conditions.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free