Glycosylated hemoglobin A2 (HbA₂) by electrophoresis
This test measures the percentage of a specific type of hemoglobin (HbA₂) in your blood, which is linked to how well your body produces certain types of red blood cells. It’s often used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting red blood cell production.
["HbA₂ helps assess conditions like thalassemia or iron deficiency anemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4552-6
- Short code
- Hgb A2 MFr Bld Elph
- Synonyms
- Hgb A2 MFr Bld Elph
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why is this test done?
Your healthcare provider may order an HbA₂ test to check for genetic blood disorders, such as thalassemia, which can cause problems with making healthy red blood cells. It may also be used in people with iron deficiency or other conditions affecting red blood cell production.
What does the test involve?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then separated and analyzed using an electrophoresis method to measure the HbA₂ levels.
What should you expect before the test?
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but it usually goes away quickly.
What are the results typically used for?
HbA₂ levels help diagnose or monitor thalassemia and other blood disorders. Higher levels may indicate certain genetic conditions, while lower levels could suggest other health issues affecting red blood cell production.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: HbA₂ is an important marker for inherited blood disorders like thalassemia. Elevated levels can indicate abnormal red blood cell production, while low levels may suggest conditions that interfere with hemoglobin synthesis or red blood cell development. Regular monitoring can help manage these conditions effectively.
Short name
HbA₂ (Electrophoresis)
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal HbA₂ result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect HbA₂ levels?
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