hemoglobin

hemoglobin The oxygen-carrying protein pigment in the blood, specifically in the red blood cells. Abbreviated Hb. Hb is usually measured as total Hb expressed as the amount of Hb in grams (gm) per deciliter (dl) of whole blood. The normal ranges are approximately 14 to 17 gm/dl for adult men and 12 to 15 gm/dl for adult women. Values returned on Hb tests may vary slightly between laboratories. See also CBC.