Test Directory

Test Code
PLHGB
Test Name
Hemoglobin, Plasma
CPT Codes
83051
Expected Turnaround Time
1 - 2 day
Clinical Utility

The presence of free hemoglobin in plasma is an indication of intravascular hemolysis resulting from numerousconditions, among which include Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH), Sickle-Cell Disease (SCD), Thalassemias, Hereditary Spherocytosis, Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemias, Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency, ABO Mismatch Transfusion Reaction, Cardiopulmonary Bypass or Mechanical Heart Valve-induced Anemia.

Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Plasma

Preferred Collection Container: Green Top (Sodium Heparin)

Alternate Collection Container: Green Top (Lithium Heparin)

Desired Specimen Volume: 1 mL

Collection Instructions
  1. Collect a green top (sodium heparin) tube via venipuncture.
Processing and Submission Instructions
  1. Separate plasma from cells within 1 hour of collection.
  2. Transfer 1 mL of plasma to a clear aliquot tube (screw cap).
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 

Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

7 days

Refrigerated

7 days

Methodology
Colorimetry
Reference Intervals

 See patient report.

Reference Lab
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
Testing Schedule
Routine, 5 times per week