High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Hemoglobin Fraction Analysis (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures different types of hemoglobin in your blood using a high-performance liquid chromatography method. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
["This test helps assess how much of your hemoglobin is in the fetal form, which can indicate certain blood conditions or health risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71866-8
- Short code
- Hgb E MFr.DF Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb E 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
What Does This Test Measure?
Your blood contains several forms of hemoglobin, including fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which is the primary form in newborns. This test specifically measures the proportion of HbF among your total hemoglobin. The results can help identify conditions like thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or other hemoglobinopathies.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Doctors may recommend this test if you have symptoms like anemia, fatigue, or if you have a family history of hemoglobin disorders. It can also be used during pregnancy to monitor fetal health or in research settings to study hemoglobin variants.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This method ensures accurate measurement of hemoglobin fractions.
What Are Common Results and Next Steps?
Results are typically expressed as a percentage of HbF relative to total hemoglobin. Abnormal levels may prompt further genetic testing or additional blood work to diagnose specific conditions.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HPLC Hb Fraction Test
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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