What is the role of alkaline dithionite in measuring carboxyhemoglobin?

Alkaline dithionite plays a specific role in the analysis of hemoglobin derivatives, particularly in differentiating between various forms of hemoglobin present in blood samples. In the context of measuring carboxyhemoglobin, its primary function is related to the reduction of oxyhemoglobin.

When alkaline dithionite is introduced to a sample containing hemoglobins, it reduces oxyhemoglobin to deoxyhemoglobin. This reaction is crucial because it allows for an accurate measurement of the concentrations of other forms of hemoglobin, including carboxyhemoglobin. By converting oxyhemoglobin to deoxyhemoglobin, the dithionite allows for clearer quantification of carboxyhemoglobin levels in blood samples, as these levels can then be assessed without interference from the oxyhemoglobin component.

In summary, the role of alkaline dithionite is significant in the process of evaluating carboxyhemoglobin levels, as it effectively facilitates the transformation of oxyhemoglobin to deoxyhemoglobin, thereby enhancing the specificity and accuracy of the measurement of specific hemoglobin derivatives.