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Haptoglobin in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of haptoglobin, a protein in your blood that helps protect against bleeding and infection by binding to hemoglobin released from damaged red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Haptoglobin helps identify conditions affecting red blood cells or blood clotting."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29220-1
Short code
Haptoglob Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
Haptoglob Fld-mCnc
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), anemia, or certain blood disorders. It can also help diagnose or monitor diseases such as malaria, sickle cell disease, or liver problems.

What Does a Low or High Level Mean?

Low levels of haptoglobin may suggest red blood cell destruction (hemolysis), blood loss, or certain infections. High levels can sometimes occur with inflammation or other health conditions, though this is less common.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood is collected in a tube and sent to the lab for testing.

What Are Common Conditions Monitored?

This test is often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or follow conditions like malaria, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, or severe infections.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Haptoglobin

Frequently asked questions

What causes low haptoglobin levels?
Low haptoglobin can be caused by conditions that damage red blood cells, such as hemolytic anemia, infections (e.g., malaria), or certain medications. It may also appear after blood loss or in liver disease.
What does it mean if my haptoglobin is normal?
A normal result doesn’t rule out all possible causes of red blood cell issues, but it suggests your body is handling hemoglobin binding normally. Follow-up tests may still be needed if symptoms persist.
Can diet or supplements affect haptoglobin levels?
Dietary factors generally do not significantly affect haptoglobin levels. However, certain medications (like blood thinners) or chronic illnesses may influence results, so always discuss your medications with your provider.
  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