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Haptoglobin by Electrophoresis

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

This test measures the protein haptoglobin in your blood, which helps protect red blood cells from damage and signals the immune system during infections or inflammation.

Quick summary

["Haptoglobin levels can indicate blood loss, infection, or certain health conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98997-0
Short code
Haptoglob MFr SerPl Elph
Synonyms
Haptoglob MFr SerPl Elph
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
electrophoresis
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 anemia (low red blood cells), infections, or blood disorders. It can also help evaluate responses to treatments or monitor chronic diseases affecting blood components.

What Does a Result Mean?

Haptoglobin levels vary based on health status. Low levels may suggest blood loss, hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), or certain infections. High levels might indicate inflammation or other systemic conditions. Your results will be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your overall health.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting) for testing. This test uses electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.

Common Conditions Monitored

Haptoglobin is often checked alongside other blood tests to diagnose or monitor conditions such as anemia, autoimmune diseases, or infections. It can also be useful in assessing liver function or detecting blood disorders like thalassemia.

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.

Clinical Significance: Haptoglobin Levels

Short name

Haptoglobin Serum Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

What might cause low haptoglobin levels?
Low haptoglobin levels can result from conditions like hemolytic anemia (where red blood cells break down faster than they can be replaced), severe infections, or blood loss (e.g., from trauma or heavy menstrual periods). It may also be seen in certain liver diseases or after certain medications.
What might cause high haptoglobin levels?
High haptoglobin levels can occur with chronic inflammation, infections, or certain cancers. It may also be elevated in response to stress or trauma, though this is less common. Your healthcare provider will consider your full medical history and other test results to determine the cause.
How soon will I get my results?
Results from this test are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow. Your provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
  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