High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Analysis of Hemoglobin Variants in Whole Blood
This test measures different forms of hemoglobin in your blood using high-performance liquid chromatography. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and variations can sometimes indicate genetic conditions or other health factors.
["This test helps identify unusual hemoglobin types that may require further medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71856-9
- Short code
- Hgb Other MFr.DF Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb Other 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unusual blood test results. It’s also used in genetic testing for conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia, where specific hemoglobin variants are common.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. The test is usually done in a lab and may take a few hours to complete, depending on the number of variants being checked.
What the Results Mean
The test identifies specific hemoglobin types, such as HbA, HbA2, or abnormal variants like HbS (sickle cell). Normal results show typical hemoglobin forms, while unusual patterns may signal genetic disorders or other conditions that need further medical attention.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Hemoglobin
Abnormal hemoglobin variants can be linked to inherited blood disorders like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other genetic conditions. These conditions can affect how well your blood carries oxygen, leading to symptoms like anemia or pain.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is crucial for diagnosing genetic blood disorders early, allowing for targeted treatments and management plans. It helps healthcare providers monitor how well your blood is functioning and plan appropriate care.
Short name
HPLC Hemoglobin Variants
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal hemoglobin variant mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect hemoglobin variants?
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