HEMOGLOBIN (B) 0000510

The hemoglobin is used to evaluate the hemoglobin content of your blood as part of a general health checkup. It is also used to screen for and help diagnose conditions that affect red blood cells (RBCs) such as when you have anemia or polycythemia, to assess the severity of these conditions and to monitor response to treatment. You and your doctor may order this test along with the hematocrit or as part of a complete blood count (CBC), which may be ordered as part of a general health screen. You may also check this with your doctor when you suspect that you have a condition such as anemia (decreased hemoglobin) or polycythemia (increased hemoglobin) or at regular intervals to monitor disease or response to treatment.