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Hemoglobin Variants by Surface Antibody Screening (Serum)

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

This test checks for different types of hemoglobin in your blood, which may be important if you have symptoms like anemia, unusual blood tests, or a family history of hemoglobin disorders.

Quick summary

["Helps identify rare blood conditions linked to abnormal hemoglobin structure."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10900-9
Short code
HBV surface Ab Ser Ql IA
Synonyms
HBV surface Ab Ser Ql IA
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have unexplained fatigue, pale skin, unusual blood test results, or a family history of conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia. It’s also used in newborn screening or before certain medical procedures.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. The test is quick and typically done in a clinic or lab setting.

What the Results Mean

Results show the presence of different hemoglobin types. Abnormal findings may indicate genetic blood disorders, which your doctor will discuss with you. Normal results mean your hemoglobin appears typical for your blood type.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

This test can help diagnose hemoglobinopathies, such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other rare hemoglobin variants. It’s also used to confirm or rule out inherited blood disorders in newborns or adults.

Reference range

Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Hemoglobin Variant Screening (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result may indicate an inherited blood disorder, such as sickle cell trait or thalassemia. Your doctor will review the results with you and may recommend further testing or monitoring.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status. If you have a known hemoglobin disorder, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. If this is a one-time screening, it may not be repeated unless symptoms or test results suggest further evaluation.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special diet or fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before your blood draw.
  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