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Methylene blue test

Methylene blue test

Definition

The methylene blue test is used to determine the type of methemoglobinemia.

Why the Test is Performed

Methemoglobinemia has several causes, many of which are genetic. This test is used to tell the difference between methemoglobinemia caused by the lack of an enzyme in the blood called cytochrome b5 reductase and other types that are passed down through families (inherited). This test helps your health care provider develop a plan of care.

How the Test is Performed

The health care provider wraps a tourniquet or blood pressure cuff around your upper arm. This creates pressure that causes veins below the area to fill with blood.

After cleaning the area with a germ killer (antiseptic), the person performing the test will place a need into your vein, usually near the inside of the elbow or back of the hand. A thin tube, called a catheter, is then placed into the vein. (It may be called an IV, which means intravenous.) While the tube stays in place, the needle and tourniquet are removed.

A dark green powder called methylene blue goes through the tube into your vein. The health care provider looks at how the powder turns a substance in the blood called methemoglobin into normal hemoglobin.

How to Prepare for the Test

No special preparation is required for this test.

How the Test Will Feel

When the needle is inserted, you may feel moderate pain or a stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Risks

Risks associated with this type of blood test are minor, but may include:

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Fainting or feeling lightheaded
  • Hematoma (blood builds up under the skin)
  • Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken, but the chances of infection increase the longer the IV remains in the vein)
  • Multiple needle sticks to locate veins

Considerations

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Inserting an IV may be more difficult for you or your child than for others.

Normal Results

Normally, methylene blue rapidly lowers the levels of methemoglobin in the blood.

What Abnormal Results Mean

If methylene blue does not significantly lower blood levels of methemoglobin, then a rare form of hereditary methemoglobinemia is suspected.

Review Date: 12/11/2006
Reviewed By: Brian Kirmse, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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