Hemoglobin (Hb) Fraction Analysis by Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the distribution of different hemoglobin types in your blood, often used to identify conditions affecting red blood cell structure or hemoglobin composition.
["Helps diagnose blood disorders by identifying abnormal hemoglobin patterns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80655-4
- Short code
- Hgb G-Philad MFr Bld
- Synonyms
- Hgb G-Philad 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 This Test Measures
Electrophoresis separates hemoglobin into its components based on electrical charge. This test evaluates the relative amounts of normal and abnormal hemoglobin variants, which can indicate conditions like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, anemia, or unexplained blood abnormalities, or if you have a family history of hemoglobin disorders.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, where electrophoresis is performed to analyze hemoglobin fractions.
Common Conditions Evaluated
This test helps diagnose hereditary blood disorders, such as sickle cell disease (where abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to deform) or thalassemia (where production of normal hemoglobin is impaired).
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
Short name
Hb Electrophoresis Profile
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Abnormal hemoglobin levels may suggest genetic blood disorders. For example, elevated fetal hemoglobin could indicate sickle cell trait, while unusual patterns may require further genetic testing.
Dietary factors like iron intake or certain medications may indirectly influence hemoglobin levels, but they do not directly affect the electrophoresis profile. Avoid blood-thinning medications for 24 hours before testing if instructed.
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