High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Measurement of Glycosylated Hemoglobin A2 (HbA₂)
This test measures the percentage of a specific type of hemoglobin (HbA₂) that carries oxygen in your blood. HbA₂ is a marker often used to assess genetic conditions affecting red blood cells, such as thalassemia.
["Helps diagnose and monitor conditions linked to abnormal hemoglobin variants."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42245-1
- Short code
- Hgb A2 MFr Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb A2 MFr Bld HPLC
- 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
- hplc
- 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
What Is HbA₂?
HbA₂ is a form of hemoglobin that carries oxygen in your red blood cells. While most hemoglobin carries oxygen normally, HbA₂ is slightly different and can be elevated in certain genetic blood disorders. This test specifically measures the proportion of HbA₂ in your bloodstream, often as a percentage of total hemoglobin.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or a family history of conditions like thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or other hemoglobinopathies. It can also be used to monitor these conditions over time.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a precise method to separate and measure different types of hemoglobin.
What Do the Results Mean?
Results are typically reported as a percentage of total hemoglobin. While specific reference ranges vary by lab, elevated levels of HbA₂ may indicate certain genetic blood disorders. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HbA₂ by HPLC
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated HbA₂ levels?
What if my HbA₂ is within normal range?
How often should I get 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