Hemoglobin F Percentage by Electrophoresis (Blood)
This test measures the percentage of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your red blood cells. Fetal hemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin found in newborns and some adults with certain blood disorders.
["HbF levels can help diagnose or monitor conditions like thalassemia or sickle cell disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13514-5
- Short code
- Hgb Fract Bld Elph-Imp
- Synonyms
- Hgb Fract Bld Elph-Imp
- 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
- electrophoresis
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of blood disorders, such as fatigue, pale skin, or frequent infections. It may also be used to screen for genetic blood conditions or to monitor treatment progress in people with known hemoglobin disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. A blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm, similar to a regular blood draw. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort.
What the Test Results Mean
Hemoglobin F is normally present in small amounts in adults. Higher levels may indicate conditions like beta-thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or other hemoglobinopathies. Lower levels in newborns can be normal or may require further evaluation.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or manage conditions such as thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or other inherited blood disorders that affect hemoglobin production.
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
HbF % (Electrophoresis)
Frequently asked questions
What is fetal hemoglobin (HbF)?
Why might my HbF levels be checked?
How long will it take to get my results?
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