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

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

This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months by checking the percentage of hemoglobin (red blood cell protein) that is coated with sugar.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22314-9
Short code
HAV IgM Ser Ql
Synonyms
HAV IgM Ser Ql
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 It’s Done

Doctors order HbA1c tests to monitor how well diabetes is controlled over time. Unlike daily blood sugar checks, this test provides a broader picture of your blood sugar trends, helping prevent complications like nerve damage or kidney issues.

How It Works

A small blood sample is taken from your arm and analyzed using HPLC to separate hemoglobin types and measure the percentage linked to sugar. This method is precise and avoids interference from recent blood sugar spikes or drops.

What to Expect

You’ll have a quick, painless prick to draw blood, similar to other routine blood tests. Results are usually ready within a few days. Unlike fingerstick tests, this test doesn’t require fasting.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as a percentage (e.g., 6.5%). Higher values indicate poorer long-term blood sugar control, while lower values suggest better management. Exact values help guide treatment, such as medication or lifestyle changes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

HbA1c is a gold-standard measure for diagnosing diabetes (typically ≥6.5%) and assessing chronic blood sugar control. It’s especially useful for patients with diabetes or prediabetes to prevent long-term complications like heart disease, nerve damage, or vision problems.

Short name

HbA1c (Blood Sugar Control)

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
For people with diabetes, doctors often recommend testing every 3–6 months. If you’re prediabetic or at high risk, your doctor may suggest testing annually or more frequently.
Does this test require fasting?
No, unlike some blood sugar tests, HbA1c doesn’t need you to fast. It reflects your average blood sugar over time, regardless of recent meals.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your HbA1c is high, your doctor may recommend changes like diet, exercise, or medication to improve control. If low, they might check for potential lab errors or adjust monitoring frequency.
  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