Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin or haemoglobin (frequently abbreviated as Hb, {{PDB|1A3N}}) is the iron-containing oxygen-transport metalloprotein in the red cells of the blood in mammals and other animals. The molecule consists of globin, the apoprotein, and four heme (or haem) groups, which are organic molecules with an iron atom in each.

Diagnostic use

Hemoglobin levels are amongst the most commonly performed blood tests, usually as part of a full blood count. Results are reported in g/L, g/dl or mmol/L. For conversion, 1 g/dl is 0.62 mmol/l.

Related Topics:
Blood test - Full blood count - G - L - Dl - Mmol/L

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Glucose levels in blood can vary widely each hour, so one or only a few samples from a patient analyzed for glucose may not be representative of glucose control in the long run. For this reason a blood sample may be analyzed for Hb A1c, which is more representative of glucose control averaged over a longer time period. People whose Hb A1c runs 6.0% or less show good longer-term glucose control. Hb A1c values which are more than 7.0% are elevated. This test is especially useful for diabetics.

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