Skip to main content

Causes of DIsCrepant HemoglobIn results

At LifeLabs, we occasionally receive calls regarding discrepant hemoglobin results. The motivation for the call is often that our reported hemoglobin value is lower than that of another laboratory. Frequently the patient is transferred to a hospital setting for a red cell transfusion that is later cancelled because of a higher repeat hemoglobin result. This is understandably frustrating and inconvenient for the patient, their family, and medical staff.

We value this feedback and investigate these inquiries thoroughly. Often, after careful review of our laboratory performance, we are unable to find a root cause. While this could mean the other laboratory hemoglobin value is inaccurate, it is more likely that both laboratories are analytically correct and that the discordant values are the work of unavoidable factors causing variation in results.

Regarding laboratory values, a certain amount of variation is allowable and expected. Specifically with regard to hemoglobin values, there are several sources of variability that can account for discordant results:

Learn more details



For rush results (NAAT within 12 hours and PCR within 24 hours)

  1. Order your FlyClear test and receive your FlyClear test requisition
  2. Book an appointment at a LifeLabs location below.
    • Bring your printed FlyClear requisition and Passport
    • Select your ordered Province’s Rush Test to start booking:
    British Columbia

    6084 Russ Baker Way
    Richmond near Airport

    COVID-19 PCR (24h) / Rush 12h NAAT

    Ontario

    6084 Russ Baker Way
    Richmond near Airport

    COVID-19 PCR (24h)
    Rush 12h NAAT
    Rapid Antigen (2h)

Pre-Departure testing now available from the comfort of your home with MyVisit (Currently Greater Toronto Area only)

  1. Order your FlyClear test and receive your FlyClear test requisition.
  2. Book your Home Visit appointment with the MyVisit portal or, if your flight is within the next five days, contact a MyVisit coordinator 1-416-993-9579 (Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm EST)

MyVisit Pre-departure testing offers:

  • COVID-19 PCR/NAAT swab testing
  • COVID-19 Antibody Blood (serology) testing

The MyVisit fee is $80 per person.

Pre-Departure testing

Book your appointment online here. If your flight is within the next five days and you have received your FlyClear requisition, please contact a MyVisit coordinator 1-416-993-9579 (Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm EST).