Methemoglobin

Methemoglobin

Clinical significance

Methemoglobin is a derivative of hemoglobin, whichóra is formed when iron is oxidized from stage II to III, under the influence of highly oxidative substances. Methemoglobin does not transport oxygen to the tissues, because iron on oxidation stage III is unable to bind oxygen. Methemoglobinemia is diagnosed when methemoglobin levels exceed 1%. Clinical manifestations depend on the amount of methemoglobin, the amount of 10-20% - bruising of the skóry, 20-30% - bóle headache, shortness of breath, 30-50% - cardiac arrhythmia, confusion, above 50% severe cardiac arrhythmia and conduction disturbances, coma, acidosis and death. Indications for determining the level of methemoglobin are cyanosis, syncope of undetermined etiology, suspected drug intoxication, incessant headaches. The cause of methemoglobinemia can be drugs and chemicals.

Patient preparation

Material: heparinized blood