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Hemoglobin F (HbF) Percentage in Whole Blood by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the percentage of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your blood, which is a type of hemoglobin found in newborns and some adults with certain blood disorders.

Quick summary

["HbF levels can help diagnose or monitor conditions like thalassemia or beta-thalassemia major."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107190-1
Short code
Hgb sp2 Stl gastro-mCnc
Synonyms
Hgb sp2 Stl gastro-mCnc
Category
hematology
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
7 N/A – 20 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of anemia, unexplained fatigue, or if you have a family history of blood disorders like thalassemia. It’s also used in newborn screening or to monitor treatment for certain hemoglobinopathies.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A small needle will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel slight discomfort, but it usually lasts only a few seconds. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, let your provider know.

What the Results Mean

HbF levels vary by age and health. Higher-than-normal levels may indicate conditions like thalassemia or sickle cell disease, while very low levels could suggest certain genetic disorders or exposure to certain medications.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or manage thalassemia (a group of blood disorders), beta-thalassemia major (a severe form), or to assess fetal hemoglobin in newborns with suspected hemoglobinopathies.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: stool

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

HbF % (HPLC)

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. If you have a diagnosed blood disorder, your provider may order this test regularly to monitor your treatment or disease progression. For newborns, it’s part of routine screening.
What are normal HbF levels?
Normal HbF levels vary widely. In newborns, it’s typically around 60–80%. In adults, normal levels are usually below 2%, though higher levels can occur in certain genetic conditions.
Can diet or lifestyle affect HbF levels?
Dietary factors like iron intake or certain medications (e.g., hydroxyurea) may influence hemoglobin types, but HbF levels are primarily determined by genetic factors. Always follow your provider’s advice for managing your condition.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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