High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for Hemoglobin F Fraction Analysis (Serum)
This test measures the proportion of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood, using a specialized liquid chromatography method. Fetal hemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin found in babies and may persist in some adults.
["HbF levels can offer insights into conditions affecting red blood cells and hemoglobin structure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71867-6
- Short code
- Hgb D MFr.DF Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb D MFr.DF 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like anemia, unexplained fatigue, or if you have a family history of blood disorders. It could also be used to monitor conditions like thalassemia or sickle cell disease, where HbF levels may vary.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from your arm. The test involves separating hemoglobin types using liquid chromatography to analyze HbF levels precisely.
What the Results Mean
Results show the percentage of HbF relative to total hemoglobin. Elevated levels may suggest certain genetic conditions, while lower levels could indicate other blood disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or track conditions like beta-thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or other hemoglobinopathies where HbF plays a role in disease progression or treatment response.
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.
Hemoglobin F (HbF) is naturally present in newborns but typically declines after birth. In some genetic disorders, HbF levels can remain elevated or fluctuate, offering clues about underlying blood cell abnormalities. Monitoring HbF helps guide treatment decisions, especially for conditions requiring targeted therapies or supportive care.
Short name
HPLC HbF Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal HbF result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect HbF levels?
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