Hemoglobin Subtype Analysis (Quantitative, Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the proportions of different hemoglobin variants in your blood, which can help identify conditions like sickle cell disease or other inherited blood disorders.
["Understanding your hemoglobin types may help diagnose or monitor certain blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4621-9
- Short code
- Hgb S Bld Ql
- Synonyms
- Hgb S Bld Ql
- 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
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 screen for genetic blood disorders or confirm a suspected diagnosis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, by a healthcare professional. The test is typically done in a lab and results are available within a few days.
What the Results Mean
The test provides percentages of different hemoglobin types (e.g., hemoglobin A, A2, F, S, C). Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like sickle cell trait, thalassemia, or other hereditary blood disorders.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobinopathies. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings for genetic screening.
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.
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Different variants can affect how well your blood carries oxygen or cause red blood cells to deform or break down prematurely. Variations like sickle hemoglobin (HbS) can lead to severe pain, organ damage, or complications if untreated. This test helps identify these variations early for better management and treatment planning.
Short name
Hemoglobin Subtype Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a hemoglobin subtype profile test measure?
Unlike a standard hemoglobin test (which measures total hemoglobin levels), this test specifically analyzes the types of hemoglobin present. It’s useful for identifying genetic or inherited blood conditions that affect hemoglobin structure.
How long does it take to get results?
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