Hemoglobin Electrophoresis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the types of hemoglobin in your blood using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on their electrical charge. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
["Helps identify abnormal hemoglobin variants that may cause conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43113-0
- Short code
- Hgb Pnl Bld Elph
- Synonyms
- Hgb Pnl Bld Elph
- 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
- electrophoresis
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pain, or unusual blood test results. It’s also used to diagnose or monitor conditions linked to abnormal hemoglobin, such as hereditary blood disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
How the Test Works
Blood is separated into its components, and the hemoglobin types are analyzed using an electric field. Different hemoglobin variants move at different speeds, creating distinct bands on a gel or paper.
What the Results Mean
Results show the proportion of different hemoglobin types. Normal results indicate typical hemoglobin distribution, while abnormal patterns may suggest genetic disorders or other health issues.
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
Frequently asked questions
Hemoglobin electrophoresis helps diagnose conditions like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies. It’s also used to confirm or monitor treatment progress in patients with known genetic blood disorders.
What does a high or low percentage of a specific hemoglobin type mean?
How often should I get this test?
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