For a brief introduction and guide to abbreviations, see Laboratory Tests: General Remarks.
Reference range, target level, or decision threshold
Men: 13-18 g/dL (8.7-11.2 mmol/L)
Women: 12-16 g/dL (7.5-9.9 mmol/L) in nonpregnant women, 11-14 g/dL (6.9-8.8 mmol/L) in pregnancy
Interpretation of results
↓ Anemias, overhydration
↑ Polycythemia vera, secondary and relative polycythemias