Hemoglobin (Hb) with Peripheral Blood Leukocyte Differential Analysis (Qualitative)
This test measures hemoglobin levels in your blood and evaluates the types and proportions of white blood cells (WBCs) in your peripheral blood sample. Hemoglobin helps your blood carry oxygen, while the WBC differential can help identify infections, inflammation, or other blood disorders.
["Hemoglobin levels and WBC types help diagnose and guide treatment for blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55235-6
- Short code
- Abnormal hemoglobin Pnl Bld
- Synonyms
- Abnormal hemoglobin Pnl Bld
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- molgen
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- 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
Doctors may order this test to check for anemia (low hemoglobin), infections, immune disorders, or other blood conditions. It can also help monitor treatment progress for conditions like leukemia or other blood disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Hemoglobin levels help determine if you have anemia or other blood-related issues. The WBC differential can show if there’s an abnormal number of certain types of white blood cells, which may indicate infections, allergies, or autoimmune diseases.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
Low hemoglobin might suggest anemia, while abnormal WBC counts could point to infections, cancer, or inflammatory diseases. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you in detail.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Hemoglobin & WBC Differential (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal hemoglobin levels in this test?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect 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