Hemoglobin Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test separates different types of hemoglobin in your blood to check for variations that may indicate conditions like sickle cell disease or other hemoglobinopathies.
["This test helps identify unusual hemoglobin patterns that could signal genetic blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 45208-6
- Short code
- Hgb A Bld Ql Elph
- Synonyms
- Hgb A Bld Ql 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
What This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates hemoglobin molecules based on their electrical charge. Normal hemoglobin (HbA) moves differently than abnormal variants like HbS (sickle cell) or HbC. The test detects these variations by showing distinct bands on a gel.
Why It’s Done
Doctors order this test when they suspect inherited blood disorders, such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies. It’s also used in newborn screening programs.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from your arm, and the serum or plasma is analyzed using an electric field to separate hemoglobin types. No special preparation is needed beyond standard blood draw precautions.
Interpretation and Results
Results show distinct bands representing different hemoglobin types. Abnormal bands may indicate genetic conditions, while normal patterns suggest no significant hemoglobin variants are present.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Hemoglobin Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
This test is critical for diagnosing hemoglobinopathies, which can cause chronic pain, anemia, or organ damage. Early detection allows for targeted treatment and management strategies.
An abnormal result may show unusual hemoglobin bands, suggesting conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia. Your healthcare provider will discuss next steps based on the pattern and your symptoms.
The frequency depends on your health status. If you have a known hemoglobinopathy, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, it’s typically done only when symptoms or risk factors suggest it’s needed.
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