Hemoglobin Electrophoresis (Sickle Cell or Other Hemoglobin Variants)
This test measures the types of hemoglobin in your blood, which can help identify conditions like sickle cell disease or other inherited blood disorders.
["Helps diagnose and monitor hemoglobin-related blood disorders by identifying abnormal hemoglobin variants."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24469-9
- Short code
- Hgb XXX MFr Bld Elph
- Synonyms
- Hgb XXX MFr 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
What This Test Measures
Hemoglobin electrophoresis separates different types of hemoglobin based on their electrical charge. This helps identify whether your blood contains normal hemoglobin or abnormal variants, such as sickle hemoglobin (HbS) or other mutations.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pain, or frequent infections, or if you have a family history of sickle cell disease or other hemoglobin disorders.
Sample Collection
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to analyze hemoglobin variants using electrophoresis, a technique that separates hemoglobin molecules by size and charge.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other inherited hemoglobinopathies. It can also help monitor disease progression or response to treatment.
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.
Abnormal hemoglobin patterns detected by this test can confirm or rule out conditions like sickle cell disease, which can cause severe pain, organ damage, and complications. Early diagnosis allows for better management and treatment planning.
Short name
Hemoglobin Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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