High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Measurement of Hemoglobin F Fraction in Serum or Plasma
This test measures the percentage of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood, which is a type of hemoglobin found in babies and some adults. HbF can provide insights into conditions like beta thalassemia or certain blood disorders.
["HbF levels may help diagnose or monitor certain blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54104-5
- Short code
- Hgb Fract DBS HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb Fract DBS HPLC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting hemoglobin production, such as thalassemia syndromes, sickle cell disease, or other inherited blood disorders. It can also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to study hemoglobin variants.
What Does the Test Measure?
The test quantifies the proportion of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) relative to total hemoglobin in your blood. Fetal hemoglobin is naturally present in newborns but typically decreases after birth. Abnormal levels may indicate genetic or acquired blood disorders.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to measure HbF levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could interfere with results. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions if you have any specific instructions.
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.
Elevated levels of HbF may be associated with conditions like beta thalassemia trait, sickle cell disease, or other hemoglobinopathies. Lower-than-expected levels could suggest conditions affecting red blood cell production or certain genetic disorders. HbF levels are also studied in research settings to understand hemoglobin function and disease mechanisms.
Short name
HbF Fraction (HPLC)
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges for HbF?
How long does it take to get the results?
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