Hemoglobin Sickle Cell Traits Screening (Serum/Plasma Glucose Metabolite Profile)
This test evaluates the presence of abnormal hemoglobin variants, including sickle cell trait, by analyzing glucose-related metabolites in a blood sample.
["This screening helps identify genetic conditions that may affect blood flow and oxygen delivery."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42913-4
- Short code
- Hgb sp1 Spec gastro lower Ql
- Synonyms
- Hgb sp1 Spec gastro lower Ql
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects specific glucose metabolites (e.g., related to hemoglobin breakdown or synthesis) that can indirectly reflect the presence of sickle cell trait. It uses a blood sample drawn from your arm, processed into serum or plasma, and analyzed via a chemical method to identify these markers.
Why It Matters for You
Sickle cell trait is a genetic condition where your blood cells may change shape under certain conditions, potentially causing pain or complications during extreme physical stress (e.g., dehydration, high altitude). While most people with this trait don’t experience symptoms, it’s important for certain activities (e.g., high-altitude travel, military service) to know your status.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is sent to a lab where it’s separated into serum or plasma. The lab then uses a specialized chemical test to measure glucose-related metabolites linked to hemoglobin variants. This process helps determine if you carry the sickle cell gene pair (homozygous trait) or just one copy (heterozygous trait).
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have a family history of sickle cell disease, are considering certain jobs or travel (e.g., high-altitude work), or are experiencing symptoms like fatigue, pain, or frequent infections that could relate to blood disorders.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 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.
Clinical Significance
Frequently asked questions
Is this test the same as a sickle cell disease test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get this test 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