Definition
methaemoglobin
noun
- a form of hemoglobin in which the iron in the heme group has been oxidized from the ferrous to the ferric state, reducing the protein's ability to carry oxygen
Usage: medical/scientific term; also spelled methemoglobin (U.S. spelling)
Examples
- Exposure to certain chemicals can cause the formation of methaemoglobin in the blood.
- High levels of methaemoglobin can lead to a condition called methaemoglobinaemia.
- The patient's methaemoglobin levels were measured to diagnose the poisoning.
- Methaemoglobin cannot effectively bind and transport oxygen like normal hemoglobin.
- Treatment with methylene blue can help reduce elevated methaemoglobin in the bloodstream.