Hemoglobin Chromatographic Fractionation (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) in Whole Blood
This test measures different types of hemoglobin in your blood using a liquid chromatography method. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and variations in its forms can provide insights into health conditions.
["This test helps identify abnormal hemoglobin types that may indicate genetic disorders or other blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4563-3
- Short code
- Hgb C MFr Bld
- Synonyms
- Hgb C MFr Bld
- 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
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test separates hemoglobin into its components—such as hemoglobin A, A2, F (fetal), and variants like S, C, or D—based on their chemical structure. Each type behaves differently during chromatography, allowing for precise identification.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, anemia, or unexplained blood abnormalities, or if you have a family history of hemoglobin disorders (e.g., sickle cell disease, thalassemia). It helps diagnose or monitor conditions affecting hemoglobin production or structure.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to separate hemoglobin fractions using high-performance liquid chromatography, which detects and quantifies each type.
What Are Common Findings?
Normal results show typical hemoglobin distributions (e.g., high hemoglobin A, minimal fetal hemoglobin). Abnormal findings may reveal elevated fetal hemoglobin (common in sickle cell trait), unusual variants, or reduced levels of specific fractions, which can signal genetic disorders.
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
Hb Chromatography Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect 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