Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Modeling Neonatal Intraventricular Hemorrhage Through Intraventricular Injection of Hemoglobin
Published on: August 25, 2022
Fluctuating Pulse Oximetry Readings in an Adolescent With Hemoglobin Bibba: A Case Report
Cedric Cirenei1, Francis Veyckemans1, Melissa Barbati2
1From the Departments of Anesthesiology.
Abstract:
Hemoglobinopathies caused by unstable hemoglobins represent a wide group of diseases that include hemoglobin Bibba. Hemoglobin instability may cause chronic hemolytic anemia and conformational changes in hemoglobin that affect affinity for oxygen and absorption of wavelengths of light used in pulse oximetry devices. We report the case of an adolescent with hemoglobin Bibba and α-thalassemia. SpO2 was unexpectedly low despite stable vital signs when his hemoglobin was closer to 10 g/dL and normal when his hemoglobin was lower, presumably when there was less unstable hemoglobin because of hemolysis.
Related Concept Videos
Pulse Oximetry
Purpose
Average SpO2 values are greater than 95%. If the readings fall below 90%, it indicates that...
Hemoglobin
When all four heme groups are bound to oxygen, the resulting molecule is called oxyhemoglobin. As a result, arterial blood...
Uncertainty in Measurement: Reading Instruments
Pulse
The pulse serves as a clinical...
Pulse
Pulse Rate and its Significance
Pulse rate, often measured in beats per minute (bpm), reflects the heart rate (HR), which is influenced by numerous factors such as stress, physical activity, and hormonal changes. A normal resting adult pulse rate falls...
Cognitive Development During Adolescence

