Hemoglobin Variants by Surface Antibody Detection (Donor-Specific)
This test measures specific types of hemoglobin variants using antibodies to detect differences in their surface properties, often performed on donor blood to assess compatibility for transfusions.
["This test helps ensure safe blood donation by identifying rare hemoglobin variants that might affect compatibility with a recipient’s blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21006-2
- Short code
- HBV surface Ab Ser Donr IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HBV surface Ab Ser Donr IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 82378
- SNOMED
- 394995008
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects variations in hemoglobin molecules that differ in their surface structure. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Certain genetic differences in hemoglobin can alter how it interacts with antibodies, which is critical for transfusion safety.
Why It’s Done
This test is primarily conducted on blood donations to screen for rare hemoglobin variants that could cause adverse reactions in recipients. It helps prevent transfusion-related complications by ensuring compatibility.
How the Test Works
Blood is collected from a donor and analyzed using an immunoassay method. Antibodies are used to detect specific surface markers on hemoglobin variants. If antibodies bind to these markers, it indicates the presence of a variant that may require further evaluation or exclusion from the blood supply.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from the donor’s vein. The blood is processed to separate the red blood cells, and the test is performed on the plasma or serum portion to detect antibody interactions with hemoglobin variants.
Reference range
Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Results from this test help determine if a blood donation is safe for transfusion. Certain hemoglobin variants can cause immune reactions in recipients, leading to conditions like hemolytic transfusion reactions. By identifying these variants, blood banks can ensure only compatible donations are used, improving patient safety.
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive or Negative Result Mean?
How Often Is This Test Done?
Can I Donate Blood If This Test Is Positive?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy