High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Analysis of Hemoglobin F (HbF) in Whole Blood
This test measures the amount of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood using a specialized liquid chromatography method. HbF is a form of hemoglobin found in babies and some adults with certain blood conditions.
["This test helps evaluate red blood cell production and certain blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44920-7
- Short code
- Hgb C MFr Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb C MFr Bld HPLC
- 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
- Method
- hplc
- 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
What Is Hemoglobin F (HbF)?
Hemoglobin F (HbF) is a type of hemoglobin that carries oxygen in your blood. Unlike the adult form (hemoglobin A), HbF is primarily produced in the fetus and newborn. In adults, small amounts may be present, but higher levels can indicate certain blood disorders or genetic conditions.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or abnormal blood test results. It’s also used to monitor conditions such as thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or other inherited blood disorders where HbF levels may be elevated.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography to separate and measure HbF levels accurately.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are reported as a percentage of HbF relative to total hemoglobin. Higher-than-normal levels may suggest certain genetic blood disorders, while lower levels could indicate conditions affecting red blood cell production.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HbF HPLC
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can HbF levels change over time?
Is fasting required for this test?
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