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What is methylene blue reduction test done for
(April 7, 2010)
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A methylene blue reduction test is primarily conducted to diagnose the presence of a condition known as methemoblobinemia. This blood condition is characterized by the abnormal amount of hemoglobin building up within the blood. Hereditary is one of the most common causes of the condition as studies have shown that a large number of patients have acquired it from one or both of their parents. Getting into further detail, there are two distinct types of methemoglobinemia. The first type is inherited from both parents, even if they are not affected by the condition themselves. The infection resides primarily in a gene that is passed on to their offspring. The second variant of the condition is called hemoglobin M disease and is primarily caused by a defect present in the hemoglobin molecule. For the second type of the condition to take place, only one parent may have the faulty gene and cause the child to inherit the condition. The most common symptom present when an individual is affected by the first type of the condition is a rather bluish coloring of the skin while the second variant of the condition will show symptoms such as a failure to thrive, mental retardation and seizures. Common symptoms present in both types of conditions include a headache, a shortness of breath and a distinct lack of energy.
A methylene test is performed by the doctor placing a needle into the vein in your arm just behind the elbow. This is done after the area has been cleansed with an antiseptic. A thin tube, known as a catheter is then placed into the vein and a darkish green powder, known as methylene blue is introduced into your vein. Once this is done the attending physician will look at how the powder reacts with the blood.
As with any medical test that is invasive, there is always a certain element of risk involved. However, most of the risk is directly linked to the hygiene with which the medical establishment you are having the test conducted operates with. Some of the other risks involved include excessive bleeding, feeling nauseous or even the accumulation of blood under the skin.
To properly gauge how abnormal the test results are, one should know what readings are considered to be normal. Under normal circumstances, the mythelene blue tends to rapidly lower the level of methemoglobin within the patients system. If this change does not occur rapidly, the doctor will then have an almost confirmed diagnosis of inherited methemoglobinemia
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Submitted by M T on April 7, 2010 at 10:54
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