What does the acronym "Hgb" stand for in medical terminology?

The acronym "Hgb" stands for "hemoglobin," which is the correct and most widely accepted term in medical terminology. Hemoglobin is a specialized protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to various tissues throughout the body and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs for exhalation. Its structure allows it to bind oxygen efficiently and release it where needed.

Understanding the significance of hemoglobin is crucial for interpreting various laboratory tests, including complete blood counts and evaluations of anemia. The other terms listed do not correspond accurately to the abbreviation "Hgb." They may reference related components of blood or different types of globulins, but only "hemoglobin" precisely reflects the function and importance of Hgb within the hematological and physiological contexts.