Hemoglobin F percentage (by high-performance liquid chromatography)
This test measures the percentage of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood. Fetal hemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin found in babies before birth and in some adults with certain blood disorders.
["HbF percentage helps diagnose and monitor conditions like thalassemia or polycythemia vera."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54105-2
- Short code
- Hgb Fract DBS IEF
- Synonyms
- Hgb Fract DBS IEF
- 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
- isoelectric-focusing
- 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 if you have symptoms of blood disorders, such as fatigue, pale skin, or unusual tiredness. It may also be used to monitor conditions like sickle cell disease or beta-thalassemia, where abnormal hemoglobin levels are present.
What does the result mean?
Higher than normal levels of HbF can be seen in certain genetic blood disorders. Lower levels may indicate conditions affecting red blood cell production or other blood-related issues. Your doctor will interpret the result in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How is the test performed?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to measure the percentage of fetal hemoglobin.
What preparation is needed?
No special preparation is typically required for this test. However, if you are taking certain medications or have a condition that might affect blood tests, inform your healthcare provider before the test.
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 % (HPLC)
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal HbF percentage mean?
How often should I get this test?
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