Hemoglobin Fraction Analysis by Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures different types of hemoglobin in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates hemoglobin variants based on their electrical charge.
["Helps identify abnormal hemoglobin forms linked to conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54071-6
- Short code
- Hgb E MFr DBS
- Synonyms
- Hgb E MFr DBS
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Hemoglobin?
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Normally, it consists mostly of one type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin A. However, certain genetic conditions can cause the production of abnormal hemoglobin variants, which may affect how well your blood carries oxygen.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or frequent infections, or if you have a family history of blood disorders. It’s also used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the hemoglobin components using an electrophoresis technique, which sorts them based on their electrical properties. The results are analyzed to identify the presence and proportion of different hemoglobin types.
What Do the Results Mean?
The test results show the distribution of hemoglobin variants, such as hemoglobin A, A2, F, or abnormal forms like S (sickle cell) or C. Elevated levels of certain variants or unusual patterns can indicate underlying blood disorders that require further medical evaluation.
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.
Clinical Significance: Identifying Blood Disorders
Short name
Hb Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What could cause abnormal hemoglobin results?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes help with hemoglobin-related conditions?
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