High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Analysis of Hemoglobin F Fractionation
This test measures different types of hemoglobin, including fetal hemoglobin (HbF), using high-performance liquid chromatography. It helps assess blood composition and can be useful in diagnosing certain blood disorders.
["This test helps evaluate hemoglobin types and may support diagnosis of conditions like thalassemia or sickle cell disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71858-5
- Short code
- Hgb S MFr.DF Bld HPLC
- Synonyms
- Hgb S MFr.DF Bld HPLC
- 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
What This Test Measures
HPLC separates hemoglobin into its components, including adult hemoglobin (HbA), fetal hemoglobin (HbF), and other variants. The test provides detailed information about the proportion of each type present in your blood.
Why It’s Ordered
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting hemoglobin, such as thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or other inherited blood disorders. It can also help assess fetal hemoglobin levels in certain genetic studies.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to separate hemoglobin components before analysis. This test requires a fresh or stored blood sample sent to a lab for HPLC analysis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider if you are on blood-thinning medications or have any bleeding disorders. Avoid heavy exercise or eating a large meal before the draw to ensure accurate results.
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.
Abnormal levels of HbF or other hemoglobin variants can indicate genetic blood disorders. Elevated HbF, for example, is common in thalassemia and may help guide treatment decisions. This test is critical for diagnosing conditions that affect red blood cell production or structure.
Short name
HPLC HbF Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
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