| abstract |
An apparatus and method for spectroscopic measurement of a test object contained in a sample are provided. The apparatus comprises a source of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) forming an optical path, a stop located in the optical path between the EMR source and the sample slot, and a photodetector. The instrument also includes a main calibration algorithm that is operatively associated with the spectroscopic instrument. Examples of subjects that can be measured using this device include, but are not limited to, total hemoglobin, methemoglobin, hemoglobin-based blood substitutes, and methemoglobin equivalents. Measurement of methemoglobin can be used for accurate measurement of total hemoglobin in whole blood or hemoglobin when used as a hemolysis indicator. Measurement of methemoglobin can also be used as a means of monitoring the deterioration or improvement of deterioration of blood substitutes based on hemoglobin, or a means of monitoring the oxidation or redox of hemoglobin to methemoglobin. [Selection] Figure 6 |