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Test ID COHBB Carbon Monoxide, Blood

Test Down Notes

This test is temporarily unavailable due to instrument issues. As an alternate, order FCMEB. For additional details, see test update here.


Ordering Guidance


This test is not available for autopsy or cadaver specimens.



Specimen Required


Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 1 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Avoid exposure of specimen to atmosphere.

2. Send specimen in original collection tube. Do not aliquot.


Forms

If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Therapeutics Test Request (T831) with the specimen.

Secondary ID

8649

Useful For

Verifying carbon monoxide toxicity in cases of suspected exposure

Method Name

Carboxyhemoglobin Co-oximetry

Reporting Name

Carbon Monoxide, B

Specimen Type

Whole Blood EDTA

Specimen Minimum Volume

0.1 mL

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Whole Blood EDTA Ambient (preferred) 14 days
  Frozen  14 days
  Refrigerated  14 days

Clinical Information

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is a product of incomplete combustion of carbonaceous material. CO poisoning causes hypoxia because CO binds to hemoglobin with an affinity 250 times greater than that of oxygen, thus preventing delivery of oxygen to the tissues. Concentrations greater than 20% are associated with symptoms of toxicity (eg, headache, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, increased pulse and respiratory rate). CO levels greater than 50% are potentially fatal. Common exogenous sources of carbon monoxide include cigarette smoke, gasoline engines, and improperly ventilated home heating units. Small amounts of carbon monoxide are produced endogenously in the metabolic conversion of heme to biliverdin. This endogenous production of carbon monoxide is accelerated in hemolytic anemias.

Reference Values

Normal Concentration

Non-Smokers: 0-2%

Smokers: ≤9%

Toxic concentration: ≥20%

Cautions

No significant cautionary statements

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Friday

Report Available

Same day/1 to 3 days

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

Test Classification

This test has been cleared, approved, or is exempt by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.

CPT Code Information

82375

NY State Approved

Yes