Hemoglobin Variants by Surface Agtissq (Electrophoresis)
This test measures different types of hemoglobin in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates hemoglobin variants based on their electrical charge.
["Helps identify unusual hemoglobin forms that may suggest genetic conditions or blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10675-7
- Short code
- HBV surface Ag Tiss Ql Orcein Stn
- Synonyms
- HBV surface Ag Tiss Ql Orcein Stn
- 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
- orcein-stain
- 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
Electrophoresis separates hemoglobin molecules into bands based on their electrical charge. Each band represents a specific type of hemoglobin, including common variants like HbA (normal) and abnormal variants such as HbS (sickle cell) or HbC. This helps detect hereditary blood disorders or conditions like thalassemia.
Why It Matters in Your Health
Identifying hemoglobin variants can help diagnose conditions like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other inherited blood disorders. It may also be used to monitor treatment progress or screen for genetic risks.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn and placed on a gel. An electric current is applied, causing hemoglobin molecules to move toward the opposite charge. The resulting bands are analyzed to identify which hemoglobin types are present.
Sample Preparation
Your blood sample is typically collected in an anticoagulant tube (often EDTA) and processed within hours. No special preparation is needed, but fasting is usually not required.
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.
Abnormal hemoglobin variants detected by this test can indicate hereditary blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia. These conditions can affect red blood cell function, leading to symptoms like fatigue, anemia, or organ damage. Early detection allows for better management and treatment planning.
Short name
Hemoglobin Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive or Abnormal Result Mean?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can I Avoid This Test If I Don’t Have Symptoms?
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