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Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Method

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar, reflecting your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months.

Quick summary

["Helps doctors track long-term diabetes control and adjust treatment plans."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110808-3
Short code
HAdV IgG Msmt Ser
Synonyms
HAdV IgG Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters for Diabetes Management

HbA1c is a key marker for managing diabetes because it provides a snapshot of your blood sugar control over time. Unlike daily blood sugar checks, it gives a broader picture of how well your body handles glucose, helping prevent complications like nerve damage or kidney issues.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is analyzed using HPLC, a precise method that separates hemoglobin types and calculates the percentage of HbA1c. This avoids interference from other factors that might affect simpler tests.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A small blood sample is taken from your arm, similar to a routine blood draw. Fasting is not required, but it won’t affect the results.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors order HbA1c to diagnose diabetes, monitor existing diabetes, or check for prediabetes. It’s also useful for assessing how well treatments like medication or diet are working.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

HbA1c levels above 6.5% typically indicate diabetes, while levels between 5.7% and 6.4% suggest prediabetes. Lower levels (below 5.7%) are generally considered normal. Higher-than-normal results may signal poor glucose control, increasing risks for long-term health issues.

Short name

HbA1c

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
For people with diabetes, HbA1c is usually checked every 2–3 months to adjust treatment. Your doctor may recommend more frequent tests if your blood sugar is hard to control.
Does fasting affect HbA1c results?
No, fasting does not influence HbA1c because it measures long-term blood sugar trends, not immediate spikes.
What do my results mean if they’re high?
High HbA1c levels mean your blood sugar has been consistently elevated. Your doctor will work with you to improve diet, exercise, or medication to lower it.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy