Test Directory

Clear All
Test Code
RBCB3
Test Name
RBC Band 3 Protein Reduction
CPT Codes
88184
Expected Turnaround Time
4 - 8 days
Clinical Utility
Use to confirm diagnosis of hereditary spherocytosis when hemolytic anemia and spherocytes are present.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Collection Container: Lavender Top (EDTA)

Alternate Collection Container: Green Top (Sodium or Lithium Heparin)

Desired Specimen Volume: 4 mL
Collection Instructions
  1. Collect a lavender top (EDTA) tube via venipuncture.
Processing and Submission Instructions
  1. Transport 4 mL of whole blood in the original collection container.
  2. Specimens must be analyzed within 7 days of collection.
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 
Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

3 days

Refrigerated

7 days
Causes for Rejection
  • Clotted or hemolyzed specimen
  • Specimen older than 7 days
Methodology
Qualitative Flow Cytometry
Reference Intervals

 See patient report.
Alternate Names
  • Hereditary Spherocytosis, EMA, BAND 3, Osmotic Fragility
  • HS hemolytic anema assay
Reference Lab
Labcorp Of America Holdings
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
© 2026 HNL Lab Medicine. All rights reserved.