Carboxyhemoglobin in nonsmokers: a mathematical model

A study was made of existing mathematical models for both carbon monoxide (CO) and carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) buildup. From these models a combined model was derived for calculating delta%COHb in nonsmokers in an enclosed space in which excess concentrations of CO may occur. For simplicity the model was restricted to those occasions where CO concentration was at equillibrium or came to equillibrium in a time-short compared with exposure time. The equation derived was for delta%COHb calculated from CO, ventilation, respiration, persons, smokers, height, weight, cigarettes, and exposure time. Comparisons with published data show excellent agreement of calculated and observed values.