Specimen:

Blood

Collection Medium:

Minimum:

Full draw any size lavender top tube

Testing
Schedule:

Performed on Wednesdays, results usually reported on Thursday.

Reference Range:

0-3.5% Hemoglobin A2

Comments:

Any value between 3.5% and 8% A2 is considered indicative of 
beta-thalassemia trait.  Analysis can not be done on patients 
transfused in the preceding 3 months since the presence of transfused 
cells may render the interpretation ambiguous.  Performed on 
Wednesdays, results usually reported on Thursday.

Methodology:

High Pressure Liquid Chromotography

Sample
Processing:

Submit whole blood in original container.

Sample
Storage:

Refrigerate.

Transport
Instructions:

Place specimen into zip-lock type bag, seal bag.
Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.

CPT Code:

83021