Hemoglobin F mass concentration in whole blood
This test measures the amount of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood. HbF is a type of hemoglobin found in newborns and some adults with certain blood disorders.
["HbF levels can help diagnose or monitor conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53857-9
- Short code
- Hgb F Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Hgb F Bld-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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of anemia, blood disorders, or if you’re pregnant and need to check for fetal health. It’s also used in newborn screening programs to identify genetic blood conditions early.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. A small blood sample will be drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s usually over quickly.
How the Results Are Used
Results help determine if you have an inherited blood disorder, guide treatment decisions, or monitor disease progression. High levels of HbF might suggest conditions like beta-thalassemia or sickle cell trait.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other hemoglobinopathies. It’s also part of newborn screening to catch genetic disorders early.
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.
Clinical significance: Elevated HbF levels can indicate genetic blood disorders, while lower levels may be normal in adults or could be associated with certain medical conditions. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
HbF (Fetal Hemoglobin)
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal HbF level mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle 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