Hemoglobin Electrophoresis (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the types of hemoglobin in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates hemoglobin components based on their electrical charge. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
["Helps identify abnormal hemoglobin variants that may cause conditions like sickle cell disease or other blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40546-4
- Short code
- Hgb E Bld Ql Elph
- Synonyms
- Hgb E 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 Is Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Used For?
Electrophoresis helps distinguish between different hemoglobin forms, which can be important for diagnosing inherited blood disorders. For example, it may detect abnormal hemoglobin types linked to conditions like thalassemia or sickle cell trait.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn, and the hemoglobin is separated into fractions based on their electrical charge. The results are displayed as bands on a gel, showing the relative amounts of each hemoglobin type.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
The test result shows the distribution of hemoglobin variants. Normal results typically show a dominant form of hemoglobin (e.g., hemoglobin A in healthy adults). Abnormal patterns may indicate genetic conditions affecting hemoglobin production or structure.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
This test is often used to screen for inherited blood disorders, such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained anemia or symptoms like fatigue, pain, or jaundice.
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 Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
How long does it take to get my results?
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