Sucrose Hemolysis Assay in Red Blood Cells (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures how quickly red blood cells break down (hemolyze) when exposed to sucrose, a sugar. It helps assess red blood cell membrane integrity and potential inherited or acquired hemolytic conditions.
["This test checks for red blood cell stability and possible blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12260-6
- Short code
- Sucrose Hemolysis RBC Ql
- Synonyms
- Sucrose Hemolysis RBC Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The sucrose hemolysis assay evaluates red blood cell (RBC) membrane stability by exposing RBCs to sucrose solution. Healthy RBCs remain intact, while damaged RBCs release hemoglobin, indicating hemolysis. This process is often used to screen for hereditary spherocytosis or other inherited RBC disorders.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, or unexplained anemia, or if they suspect conditions like hereditary spherocytosis, elliptocytosis, or other hemolytic disorders. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained blood test abnormalities.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn, and RBCs are separated from plasma/serum. The RBCs are then mixed with sucrose solution and incubated. After a set time, the sample is analyzed for hemoglobin release, which indicates hemolysis. The test is typically performed on fresh blood samples.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Elevated hemolysis in this test may suggest inherited RBC membrane defects, such as hereditary spherocytosis or elliptocytosis. Increased hemolysis can also occur with certain medications, infections, or autoimmune conditions. Low or normal results are generally consistent with healthy RBCs.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Sucrose Hemolysis Test
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to fast before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I take my medications 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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy