Skip to content

Hemoglobin Variants by Surface Antibody Screening (Serum)

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

This test detects different types of hemoglobin variants in your blood, which can sometimes cause conditions like sickle cell disease or other blood disorders.

Quick summary

["This screening helps identify unusual hemoglobin forms that may affect your health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
39535-0
Short code
HBV surface Ab Ser Ql RIA
Synonyms
HBV surface Ab Ser Ql RIA
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
ria
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pain, or unusual blood test results. It’s also used in prenatal testing or when screening for inherited blood disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically provide a blood sample from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is needed, but tell your provider about any medications or conditions that might affect results.

What the Results Mean

Results show the presence of abnormal hemoglobin types. A positive screening may lead to further testing (like confirmation or genetic analysis) to determine the exact variant and its impact on your health.

Common Conditions Linked to This Test

Variants detected here can be linked to inherited blood disorders, such as sickle cell trait or disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies. Early detection helps guide treatment options.

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.

Clinical significance: This screening is critical for diagnosing inherited blood disorders that may not cause symptoms until later in life. It helps prevent complications and guides personalized care plans.

Short name

Hemoglobin Variant Screen (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive screening mean?
A positive screening indicates the presence of abnormal hemoglobin variants. This may require further testing to confirm the type of variant and assess its health impact.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, symptoms, or risk factors. Some people may need it only once, while others may need periodic follow-ups.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Diet or over-the-counter medications are unlikely to interfere with this test. However, certain medications (like blood thinners) may affect blood samples. Always inform your provider about all medications.
  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