High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Analysis of Hemoglobin F Fraction in Whole Blood
This test measures the proportion of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). HbF is a type of hemoglobin found naturally in infants and children, which may persist in some adults.
["This test helps assess conditions affecting hemoglobin composition, including certain blood disorders or genetic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42247-7
- Short code
- Hgb Fract Bld HPLC-Imp
- Synonyms
- Hgb Fract Bld HPLC-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
- 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 or risk factors related to hemoglobin disorders, such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or other inherited blood conditions. It may also be used to monitor treatment progress or diagnose conditions affecting hemoglobin production or breakdown.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to other routine blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Results show the percentage of HbF relative to total hemoglobin. While reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal levels may indicate conditions like beta-thalassemia, fetal hemoglobin disorders, or certain cancers (e.g., myeloproliferative diseases). Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Monitored or Diagnosed
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing or managing hemoglobinopathies (inherited blood disorders), such as sickle cell trait or disease, or conditions where HbF levels are elevated due to genetic mutations or medical treatments.
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.
High HbF levels may be associated with conditions like beta-thalassemia or certain cancers, where the body produces unusually high amounts of fetal hemoglobin as a compensatory mechanism. Low levels could suggest genetic disorders affecting hemoglobin production or other systemic conditions. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
HPLC HbF Fraction Test
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal HbF level indicate?
How often should this test be repeated?
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