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Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Method

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin), reflecting your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months.

Quick summary

["HbA1c helps doctors track diabetes management and long-term blood sugar control."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1599-0
Short code
LH BS SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
LH BS SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83002
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

HbA1c reflects the proportion of hemoglobin molecules that have sugar molecules attached, indicating how well your blood sugar has been controlled over time. It’s a key marker for diagnosing diabetes and assessing treatment effectiveness.

How It’s Done

A small blood sample is taken, usually from your arm, and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to separate and measure the different types of glycated hemoglobin.

Why It Matters

HbA1c is crucial for monitoring chronic conditions like diabetes because it provides a snapshot of blood sugar trends that daily measurements cannot capture.

Common Uses

Doctors use HbA1c to diagnose diabetes, evaluate treatment plans, and prevent complications like nerve damage or kidney disease.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HbA1c

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Typically, people with diabetes are advised to get HbA1c tested every 2–3 months, while others may need it less frequently depending on their health status and doctor’s recommendations.
Can diet or exercise affect my HbA1c results?
Yes, lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, and weight management can influence HbA1c levels. Small, consistent improvements in these areas may gradually lower your HbA1c over time.
What if my HbA1c is higher than expected?
A higher HbA1c may indicate poor blood sugar control. Your doctor will review your results alongside other factors (like symptoms, diet, and medications) to determine next steps, such as adjusting treatment plans or checking for underlying conditions.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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