Fetal Hemoglobin Mass Concentration in Cord Blood
This test measures the amount of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your baby’s blood drawn from the umbilical cord at birth. Fetal hemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin found in newborns that differs from the hemoglobin found in adults.
["Fetal hemoglobin helps guide evaluation of potential blood disorders or genetic conditions in newborns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 61180-6
- Short code
- Hgb Bld Fetus-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Hgb Bld Fetus-mCnc
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a history of conditions like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other hemoglobin-related disorders in your family. It can also be used to screen for certain genetic conditions or to monitor blood health in high-risk pregnancies.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are not provided with specific reference ranges in this summary. Your doctor will interpret the result in relation to your baby’s clinical situation and any known family history. High levels of fetal hemoglobin may indicate certain genetic conditions, while lower levels could be part of normal newborn physiology.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small amount of blood is collected from the umbilical cord during delivery. The blood sample is processed to measure the mass concentration of fetal hemoglobin using a specialized laboratory technique.
What Are Possible Next Steps?
If the test result is abnormal, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing, such as additional blood tests or genetic counseling, depending on your baby’s clinical needs and your family history.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Fetal Hb (Mass)
Frequently asked questions
Could this test be related to my baby’s overall health beyond just hemoglobin?
What if my baby has a high or low fetal hemoglobin level?
Is this test painful for my baby?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy