Fetal Red Blood Cell Count (with Qualitative Hemoglobin F Fractionation)
This test measures the number of fetal red blood cells in your blood and assesses the proportion of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) present. It may be used during pregnancy to evaluate fetal blood health or genetic conditions.
["This test helps monitor fetal red blood cell health and identify potential genetic or developmental concerns during pregnancy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 75373-1
- Short code
- Fetal RBC/2000 RBC NFr Bld Kleih Betke
- Synonyms
- Fetal RBC/2000 RBC NFr Bld Kleih Betke
- 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
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you are pregnant and experiencing symptoms like anemia, unusual fetal movement, or if there is suspicion of conditions like fetal hydrops, thalassemia, or other blood disorders. It can also be part of prenatal screening for genetic risks.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other routine blood tests. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes.
What the Test Results Mean
The test provides two main pieces of information: the count of fetal red blood cells and the qualitative proportion of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood. Lower-than-expected fetal RBC counts or unusual HbF levels may signal underlying conditions that need further evaluation.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is particularly useful in diagnosing or monitoring conditions such as fetal anemia, thalassemia syndromes, or other genetic blood disorders that may affect fetal development. It can also help assess the effectiveness of treatments like blood transfusions.
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: Fetal Red Blood Cell Count and HbF Fractionation
Short name
Fetal RBC Count & HbF Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a low or high fetal RBC count mean?
How is fetal hemoglobin (HbF) related to this test?
Can this test be done at any stage of pregnancy?
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