Methemoglobin (MetHb) refers to the state of hemoglobin (Hb) in which the [[iron atom)] is oxidized or in ferric state (Fe3+). In this state the iron is incapable of creating a bond with the oxygen, thus it neither can bind, nor deliver oxygen to the tissues.The formation of methemoglobin can be a result of a normal physiologic process of losing an electron from the iron atom, after releasing the oxygen to the tissues, and we can detect methemoglobin in the blood of healthy people, but the normal levels should always be less than 1%. These levels are maintained by several enzyme systems that work to reduce the iron to its ferrous state (Fe2+).
Methemoglobinemia pathophysiology
Methemoglobinemia risk factors
Cyanosis pathophysiology
Respiratory acidosis pathophysiology
Lactic acidosis pathophysiology
Methemoglobinemia laboratory findings
Hyperthermia pathophysiology
Lead poisoning risk factors