Hemoglobin Variants by Surface Antigen Screening (Serum)
This test helps identify specific types of hemoglobin variants in your blood, which can sometimes be linked to conditions like sickle cell disease or other inherited blood disorders.
["This screening detects unusual hemoglobin forms that may affect how your blood carries oxygen."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5197-9
- Short code
- HBV surface Ag Ser Ql RIA
- Synonyms
- HBV surface Ag 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pain, or frequent infections, or if you have a family history of blood disorders. It’s also used in prenatal testing or when diagnosing unexplained anemia.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm and sent to a lab. The serum is analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect specific surface antigens on different hemoglobin types.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight bruise or soreness at the needle site, but this usually goes away quickly. Avoid eating or drinking for 2 hours before the test if instructed.
What to Expect After the Test
You can return to your normal activities immediately. Apply gentle pressure to the site to stop any bleeding, and check for signs of infection (like redness or swelling) over the next few days.
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.
Detecting hemoglobin variants early can help diagnose conditions like sickle cell trait, thalassemia, or other inherited blood disorders. Early identification allows for better management and treatment planning, including lifestyle adjustments or medications.
Short name
Hemoglobin Variant Screening (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I fast before 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