Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Methemoglobin
Methemoglobin (also hemiglobin) is a type of hemoglobin that is produced by the oxidation of the ferrous iron contained in hemoglobin to ferric iron which doesn't have the capacity for carrying oxygen. Although a small amount of methemoglobin is normally present in blood, a large replacement of hemoglobin by methemoglobin can cause cyanosis.
Methemoglobinemia is the presence of methemoglobin in the blood. It may be acquired by exposure to some chemical agents, such as nitrites, or it may be congenital.
- See also: List of human blood components
Last updated: 10-14-2005 10:08:36
10-26-2009 08:16:03
The contents of this article is licensed from www.wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. Click here to see the transparent copy and copyright details
The contents of this article is licensed from www.wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. Click here to see the transparent copy and copyright details