Hemoglobin

Also known as: Hgb; Hb

Formal name: Hemoglobin

Related tests: Complete blood count

At a Glance

Why Get Tested?

If you have anemia or polycythemia, to assess the severity of these conditions, and to monitor response to treatment

When to Get Tested?

Usually, as part of a complete blood count (CBC), which may be ordered for a variety of reasons

Sample Required?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm or by a fingerstick (children and adults) or heelstick (newborns)

Test Preparation Needed?

None

This article was last reviewed on March 4, 2008. | This page was last modified on March 6, 2010.

The review date indicates when the article was last reviewed from beginning to end to ensure that it reflects the most current science. A review may not require any modifications to the article, so the two dates may not always agree.

The modified date indicates that one or more changes were made to the page. Such changes may or may not result from a full review of the page, so the two dates may not always agree.

This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.

We comply with the HONcode standard for
trustworthy health information.
Verify Compliance.

Produced by