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Haptoglobin in Serum (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of haptoglobin in your blood serum, a protein that helps protect red blood cells from damage and binds free hemoglobin during bleeding or hemolysis.

Quick summary

["Haptoglobin helps detect blood loss or red blood cell destruction and supports overall blood health monitoring."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
46127-7
Short code
Haptoglob SerPl Neph-mCnc
Synonyms
Haptoglob SerPl Neph-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
Method
nephelometry
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like anemia, unexplained fatigue, or signs of bleeding (such as bruising or dark urine). It can also help diagnose conditions like hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells are destroyed more quickly than normal, or conditions causing excessive bleeding, such as liver disease or certain infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

Common Conditions Monitored

Haptoglobin levels can be low in conditions like hemolytic anemia, liver disease, or severe infections. High levels may rarely indicate acute bleeding or certain inflammatory responses.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms and medical history. Abnormally low levels often signal red blood cell destruction or bleeding disorders, while very high levels may suggest recent trauma or severe inflammation.

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 Level

Frequently asked questions

Will my results affect my medications?
Haptoglobin levels alone don’t directly influence most medications, but low levels may prompt additional testing or adjustments if you’re on blood-thinning drugs or managing anemia. Always discuss results with your provider.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
You can eat and drink normally unless instructed otherwise. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing, as it may affect blood components.
What if my haptoglobin is outside the normal range?
If your results are abnormal, your provider will review them with you and may recommend further tests (like a complete blood count or liver function tests) to determine the cause. Follow-up care depends on your symptoms and diagnosis.
  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