White Blood Cell Differential (Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Screening) - Serum Autoantibody Test
This test checks for antibodies in your blood that may attack your own red blood cells, which can cause a condition called autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AHA).
["This screening helps identify potential autoimmune reactions that might affect blood cell function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 809-4
- Short code
- WBC # Prt Auto
- Synonyms
- WBC # Prt Auto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated-count
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unusual bruising, or if you have a history of autoimmune diseases. It can also be part of a general blood workup to monitor certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically have a blood draw from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood-thinning medications, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Measures
This test detects specific antibodies in your serum that target red blood cells. These antibodies can be part of an autoimmune response, where your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells.
How the Results Are Interpreted
Results are reviewed by a healthcare provider to determine if antibodies are present. Elevated levels may suggest an autoimmune condition requiring further evaluation, such as additional blood tests or a consultation with a specialist.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results may indicate autoimmune hemolytic anemia or other autoimmune disorders. Early detection can help guide treatment options, such as adjusting medications or monitoring closely. This test is often used as part of a broader diagnostic workup for unexplained anemia or immune-related symptoms.
Short name
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AHA) Autoantibody Screen (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can lifestyle changes help if this test is positive?
How often should I get 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