Hemoglobin A1c with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Measurement
This test measures the average level of hemoglobin A1c in your blood over the past 2–3 months, reflecting your blood sugar control during that time.
["HbA1c helps doctors track long-term diabetes management and adjust treatment plans."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17856-6
- Short code
- HbA1c MFr Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- HbA1c MFr Bld HPLC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4
- Ref high
- 5.6
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 14 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- hplc
- CPT
- 83037
- SNOMED
- 43387009
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why is this test important?
HbA1c provides a snapshot of how well your blood sugar has been controlled over time, which is crucial for managing conditions like diabetes. Unlike daily blood sugar checks, it gives a broader picture of your average glucose levels, helping prevent complications from high or low blood sugar.
How is the sample collected?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, similar to other blood tests. The blood is processed to separate components, and the hemoglobin fraction containing A1c is analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
What does the result mean?
Results are typically reported as a percentage, indicating the proportion of hemoglobin molecules bound to glucose. While specific ranges vary by lab, higher percentages generally suggest poorer blood sugar control, while lower percentages may indicate better control or conditions like iron deficiency.
What can affect my HbA1c results?
Several factors can influence HbA1c levels, including recent blood sugar fluctuations, iron or vitamin deficiencies, pregnancy, certain medications, and chronic illnesses like kidney disease or heart conditions. It’s important to discuss any changes in health or medications with your healthcare provider.
Reference range
Normal: 4.0-5.6%N/A
Fasting for 8-12 hours required. Water is permitted. Avoid chewing gum and smoking before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance
Short name
HbA1c (HPLC)
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What if my HbA1c is higher than expected?
Can diet or exercise change my HbA1c results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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