Hemoglobin F (HbF) in stool by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
This test measures the amount of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) found in your stool. HbF is a form of hemoglobin present in newborns and some adults with certain blood disorders.
["HbF stool testing helps detect conditions affecting red blood cell production or gastrointestinal bleeding."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14564-9
- Short code
- Hgb sp2 Stl gastro Ql
- Synonyms
- Hgb sp2 Stl gastro Ql
- 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 like unexplained fatigue, pale skin, or gastrointestinal bleeding, or if you’re being evaluated for conditions like hemochromatosis, thalassemia, or other blood disorders. It may also be used in research or specialized diagnostic scenarios.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but you may need to collect a stool sample at home or in a lab. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are interpreted based on clinical context rather than absolute numeric ranges. Elevated levels may suggest conditions affecting red blood cell production or gastrointestinal bleeding, while lower levels might indicate normal or underlying genetic factors.
Common Conditions Linked to HbF Testing
This test is less commonly used for routine screening but may be part of investigations for inherited blood disorders, gastrointestinal bleeding, or research studies. Results help guide further diagnostic testing or treatment planning.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
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: HbF stool testing is primarily used in specialized settings, such as evaluating patients with suspected hereditary blood disorders or gastrointestinal bleeding. Elevated HbF can sometimes indicate conditions like alpha-thalassemia or other hemoglobinopathies, but interpretation depends on clinical history and additional testing. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
HbF stool test
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal HbF stool test result mean?
How is this test different from a standard hemoglobin test?
Is this test painful or uncomfortable?
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