Haptoglobin
A haptoglobin test is most often used to diagnose hemolytic anemia, a disorder that happens when red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced.
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What this test measures
Haptoglobin is a protein made by your liver to get rid of the hemoglobin outside your red blood cells. Haptoglobin binds to the hemoglobin in your bloodstream, and then your liver removes it from the body. When red blood cells break down naturally or are damaged, they release hemoglobin into the bloodstream. If your red blood cells are damaged or break down faster than usual, you will have more hemoglobin than usual in your bloodstream. That means haptoglobin will bind to all of this extra hemoglobin so that it can be cleared from your body. The haptoglobin may leave the body faster than your liver can make it. This causes your haptoglobin blood levels to drop.
This test measures the amount of haptoglobin protein in the blood to help healthcare providers evaluate whether red blood cells are being destroyed at an abnormal rate. Haptoglobin is an acute-phase reactant whose principal clinical utility is in defining conditions of hemolysis. Levels can also become elevated in infection and inflammation. The test is particularly useful for diagnosing hemolytic anemia and assessing liver function, as the liver produces haptoglobin.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals experiencing symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, or pale skin that may suggest their red blood cells are being destroyed faster than normal.
- Those who notice jaundice (a yellow tinge to the skin and whites of the eyes) or dark-colored urine, which can indicate excessive red blood cell breakdown.
- Patients with suspected liver disease, as haptoglobin is produced by the liver and levels may be affected by liver function problems.
- Individuals who have recently received blood transfusions, as this test may be done along with another test called direct anti-globulin to show if there has been a bad reaction to the transfusion.
- People being evaluated for inflammatory conditions, infections, or tissue damage, as haptoglobin levels can become elevated during these conditions as part of the body's acute-phase response.
What to expect
Preparation
No fasting or special preparation is required for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some drugs may affect haptoglobin levels.
Sample Type
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The procedure typically takes just a few minutes.
Collection
The blood draw is performed at a lab location using standard venipuncture techniques. The sample is collected in a special tube and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Understanding your results
To understand the results of a haptoglobin test, your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other blood tests. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 41-165 mg/dL (410-1,650 mg/L) | Normal ranges may vary slightly between laboratories |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
If your haptoglobin levels are too low, it may be a sign of a disorder of the red blood cells, such as anemia. If your levels are lower, it means you may have hemolytic anemia, in which your red blood cells are prematurely destroyed. An undetectable level is almost always due to hemolytic anemia. Haptoglobin can be low with liver disease, as the liver produces this protein. Low levels may also occur with certain medications, infectious mononucleosis, or genetic conditions affecting haptoglobin production.
What does a “High” result mean?
High haptoglobin levels may be a sign of an inflammatory disease. Inflammatory diseases are disorders of the immune system that can cause serious health problems. Increased haptoglobin levels are seen in conditions such as diseases associated with elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (acute-phase reactants) including rheumatic disease, myocardial infarction, infection, trauma, inflammation, hepatitis, amyloidosis, collagen diseases, or lymphoma and leukemia. Elevated levels may also occur with tissue destruction or malignancy. However, haptoglobin testing is not typically used as the primary method to diagnose or monitor these high-level conditions.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your haptoglobin test results are completely confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations. Results are not shared with insurance companies or added to your permanent medical records unless you choose to share them with your healthcare provider. No doctor visit is required to order this test.
Frequently asked questions
Related tests
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
$29Often ordered together to evaluate overall blood cell counts and characteristics when assessing anemia
View TestLiver Function Panel
$39Useful since haptoglobin is produced by the liver and levels can be affected by liver disease
View TestC-Reactive Protein (CRP)
$49Both are acute-phase reactants that can be elevated during inflammation and infection
View TestRelated conditions
CPT Code: 83010
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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