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High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Measurement of Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in Whole Blood

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin), reflecting your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months.

Quick summary

["Helps track long-term diabetes control with a snapshot of your blood sugar trends."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
71864-3
Short code
Hgb F MFr.DF Bld HPLC
Synonyms
Hgb F MFr.DF Bld HPLC
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
hplc
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

Why This Test Matters

HbA1c is a key indicator of how well your diabetes is managed. Unlike daily blood sugar checks, it provides a broader view of your blood sugar control over time, helping doctors adjust treatments like insulin or diet.

How It Works

Your blood is drawn and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a precise method that separates and measures the different types of hemoglobin, including the glycated form (HbA1c).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but fasting is not required. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know—your blood may clot more easily, which could affect results.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as a percentage (e.g., 6.5%). While exact ranges vary by lab, higher percentages generally indicate poorer blood sugar control, while lower ones suggest better management.

Reference range

Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HbA1c (HPLC)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or are at risk for diabetes. It’s also used to check how well your current treatments are working or to diagnose diabetes in people with symptoms.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your HbA1c is high, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes (like diet or exercise) or adjust medications. If it’s low, they might investigate if your test was affected by factors like recent blood loss or lab errors.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No fasting is required, but avoid sugary drinks or foods right before your blood draw to prevent temporary spikes in blood sugar that could slightly alter results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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