Hemoglobin Variants by Surface Antigen Screening (Serum)
This test helps identify specific types of hemoglobin variants that may be present in your blood, which can sometimes be linked to inherited blood disorders or conditions affecting red blood cells.
["Detecting hemoglobin variants can help diagnose or monitor conditions like sickle cell disease or other inherited blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5195-3
- Short code
- HBV surface Ag Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- HBV surface Ag Ser Ql
- 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
- 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 symptoms like fatigue, pain, frequent infections, or if you have a family history of blood disorders. It may also be used to screen for certain genetic conditions or to monitor treatment effectiveness in patients with known hemoglobinopathies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. The test involves collecting a small amount of serum from your blood.
What the Test Results Mean
The test measures the presence of specific surface antigens on different hemoglobin variants. Results may show which types of hemoglobin are present, helping your healthcare provider determine if you have a particular blood disorder or condition.
Common Conditions Monitored or Diagnosed
This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other hemoglobinopathies. It may also be used in genetic screening or for patients with unexplained anemia or blood abnormalities.
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.
Identifying hemoglobin variants is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of inherited blood disorders. Early detection can lead to better treatment planning, including lifestyle adjustments, medications, or specialized care to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Short name
Hemoglobin Variant Screening (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
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