Hemoglobin Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the types of hemoglobin in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates hemoglobin proteins based on their electrical charge.
["Helps identify abnormal hemoglobin variants that may suggest conditions like sickle cell disease or other blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4612-8
- Short code
- Hgb Malmo Bld Ql Elph Alk
- Synonyms
- Hgb Malmo Bld Ql Elph Alk
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis-ph
- CPT
- 84132
- SNOMED
- 110742001
- 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 different fractions (e.g., hemoglobin A, A2, F, S, C) based on their electrical charge when placed in an electric field. This helps identify variations in hemoglobin composition that may indicate inherited blood disorders.
Why It Matters in Blood Disorders
Abnormal hemoglobin patterns can signal genetic conditions like sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies. For example, the presence of abnormal hemoglobin S (HbS) is key to diagnosing sickle cell disease.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The serum or plasma is then processed and analyzed using electrophoresis to separate hemoglobin components.
Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose
This test is primarily used to diagnose or confirm inherited blood disorders caused by abnormal hemoglobin, such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings for further evaluation.
Reference range
Adult: 3.5-5.0 mmol/LN/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.
Hemoglobin electrophoresis is crucial for diagnosing conditions where abnormal hemoglobin leads to health problems, such as chronic pain from sickle cell disease, anemia, or complications from blood vessel blockages. Early detection allows for better management and treatment planning.
Short name
Hb Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How is this test different from a regular hemoglobin test?
Can this test be done at home?
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