Fetal Red Blood Cell (RBC) Hemoglobin and Bilirubin Profile (Newborn Screening)
This test measures key blood components in your newborn’s red blood cells to check for conditions like anemia or jaundice.
Early detection helps manage potential health risks for your baby.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48556-5
- Short code
- Fetal RBC/1000 RBC Bld Kleih Betke-Rto
- Synonyms
- Fetal RBC/1000 RBC Bld Kleih Betke-Rto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- kleihauer-betke
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Newborns are screened for certain blood disorders and metabolic conditions using a simple heel-prick blood test. This profile helps identify issues like low hemoglobin (anemia) or high bilirubin (jaundice), which can affect growth and development if untreated.
What the Test Measures
The test evaluates two main components: hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) and bilirubin (a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down). These levels can indicate whether your baby’s blood is functioning properly or if additional support is needed.
What to Expect Before the Test
The test is quick and painless—just a small blood sample is taken from your baby’s heel. No special preparation is required, but check with your healthcare provider if your baby has a history of bleeding issues.
What the Results Mean
Results guide next steps, such as monitoring, additional testing, or treatment. Your doctor will discuss findings with you and explain any follow-up care needed.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Fetal RBC Hemoglobin & Bilirubin Profile
Frequently asked questions
Low hemoglobin in newborns may signal anemia, which can cause fatigue or slow growth. High bilirubin levels can lead to jaundice, requiring light therapy or other interventions to prevent brain damage.
How long will I need to wait for results? Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, but timing may vary by lab. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready.
Is this test covered by insurance? Most newborn screening tests are included in standard health insurance plans, but confirm with your provider or insurance company to confirm coverage details.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy