Newborn Hemoglobin Electrophoresis, Whole Blood — Qualitative (Alkaline Method)
A qualitative screening test that separates hemoglobin types to help identify inherited hemoglobin disorders, including sickle cell disease and thalassemia.
["This blood test checks for inherited variations in hemoglobin, particularly in newborns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4614-4
- Short code
- Hgb N-Balt Bld Ql Elph Alk
- Synonyms
- Hgb N-Balt Bld Ql Elph Alk
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7
- Ref high
- 56
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis-ph
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302773008
- 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 this test?
Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a laboratory test that separates different forms of hemoglobin so they can be identified. It is often part of newborn screening and may also be used to investigate anemia or a family history of an inherited blood disorder.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered to screen newborns for sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or another hemoglobin condition. It may also be used when a patient has anemia, unusual blood counts, symptoms suggesting a hemoglobin disorder, or a close family member with one.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and the hemoglobin is separated using electrophoresis, including an alkaline method. The laboratory reviews the pattern of hemoglobin bands to determine whether abnormal hemoglobin forms are present.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required for a routine blood draw. In newborns, the sample is generally taken through a heel or finger stick or from venous blood, depending on the testing program.
Reference range
Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Newborn Hemoglobin Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose sickle cell disease on its own?
Why is newborn screening important?
What if the hemoglobin electrophoresis result is normal?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy