Indicator Explainer
Carboxyhemoglobin
Hemoglobin where the heme group has formed a stable complex with carbon monoxide (CO). This complex is produced after CO has been inhaled or as a byproduct of hemoglobin, protoporphyrin or dichloromethane catabolism. The heme-CO complex is approximately 200 times more stable than heme-oxygen complexes. Thus, high levels of carboxyhemoglobin in the circulation can lead to tissue hypoxia and death.
This page explains what the indicator is and how results are interpreted in general terms. Reference ranges depend on the laboratory, the method, and your own situation — no single “normal value” applies to everyone. This page is health information, not a diagnosis. For symptoms, treatment, or urgent concerns, contact a healthcare professional.
When it is tested
Source: National Cancer Institute, NCI Thesaurus 26.09d, C114300. NCI definition, reproduced without modification under CC BY 4.0. Source identity and definition checked automatically on 2026-10-20. No individual clinical interpretation or human reviewer is asserted.
Reading results
Reference intervals and interpretation depend on the laboratory, specimen, method and clinical context. This source definition is educational information; it does not establish a diagnosis, product approval or suitability for an individual.
Also Known As
References
- NCI Thesaurus 26.09d — Carboxyhemoglobin (C114300)
- Source: National Cancer Institute, NCI Thesaurus 26.09d, C114300. NCI definition, reproduced without modification under CC BY 4.0.
- Immobilized Neuroglobin Scavenges Carbon Monoxide From Circulating Carboxyhemoglobin. — ASAIO J, 2026-10-15 (PMID 42879787; literature)
- Operative hysteroscopy intravascular absorption (OHIA) syndrome presenting with severe hypoxemia and abnormal carboxyhemoglobin elevation. — Pak J Med Sci, 2026-09-01 (PMID 42818956; literature)
- Prospective Assessment of Carboxyhemoglobin and Methemoglobin Levels in Operating Room Personnel During HIPEC/Peritonectomy Compared with Standard Colorectal Surgery. — J Clin Med, 2026-08-29 (PMID 42739717; literature)
- Carboxyhemoglobin as a biomarker of hemolysis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. — Int J Artif Organs, 2026-08-19 (PMID 42619001; literature)
- Carboxyhemoglobin levels for the detection of hemolysis in patients supported by left ventricular assist devices: A case series. — Int J Artif Organs, 2026-06-29 (PMID 42366929; literature)