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 blood disorders.
["This test helps identify abnormal hemoglobin patterns that could signal genetic or acquired blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71878-3
- Short code
- Hgb A MFr.DF Bld Elph
- Synonyms
- Hgb A MFr.DF 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
What This Test Measures
Hemoglobin electrophoresis measures the relative amounts of different hemoglobin variants in your blood. Normal hemoglobin (HbA) typically makes up most of your red blood cells, but certain conditions can cause unusual hemoglobin types to appear. The test uses an electric field to separate hemoglobin molecules based on their electrical charge, allowing for precise identification of each type.
Why It’s Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pain, or frequent infections that might suggest a blood disorder. It’s also used to screen for genetic conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia, especially in families with a history of these conditions.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the plasma or serum, which is analyzed using electrophoresis. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may not be required unless specified by your doctor.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but the procedure itself is quick. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—they can offer options like numbing cream or distraction techniques.
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
Hemoglobin electrophoresis is critical for diagnosing conditions like sickle cell disease, where abnormal hemoglobin (HbS) causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped, leading to pain and organ damage. It can also detect other hemoglobinopathies, such as thalassemia, where production of normal hemoglobin is impaired.
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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