High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Measurement of Glycated Hemoglobin A2 (HbA₂)
This test measures the percentage of glycated hemoglobin A2 (HbA₂) in your blood, which reflects long-term blood sugar control. It’s often used alongside HbA1c to assess glucose metabolism in certain conditions.
["Helps monitor chronic blood sugar levels over time, especially in people with diabetes or hemoglobin disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71873-4
- Short code
- Hgb A2 MFr.DF Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb A2 MFr.DF 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
Why This Test Matters
HbA₂ is a form of hemoglobin that has attached glucose molecules. While HbA1c primarily tracks average blood sugar over months, HbA₂ provides additional insight into red blood cell production and glucose control, particularly useful in conditions like thalassemia or hereditary hemolytic anemia.
How It’s Done
A small blood sample is drawn, typically from your arm. The sample is processed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to separate and measure HbA₂ levels. Results are usually reported as a percentage of total hemoglobin.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless your doctor specifies. You may experience mild discomfort from the needle, but it usually fades quickly. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, inform your healthcare provider beforehand.
Common Conditions Monitored
HbA₂ is particularly useful in diagnosing and managing hereditary blood disorders (e.g., thalassemia) and assessing glucose control in people with diabetes who may have abnormal red blood cell lifespan.
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 Level
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal HbA₂ result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or exercise 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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy