Hemoglobin F Percentage in Blood (Quantitative, 24-Hour Gastrointestinal Fluid)
This test measures the proportion of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in a sample of gastrointestinal fluid collected over 24 hours. HbF is a type of hemoglobin found in fetuses and newborns, which may be present in certain gastrointestinal conditions.
["HbF in GI fluid helps assess potential bleeding or abnormal blood-related processes in your digestive system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27925-7
- Short code
- Hgb sp7 Stl gastro Ql
- Synonyms
- Hgb sp7 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 anemia, dark stools, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. It could also be used to monitor conditions like hemochromatosis, hereditary hemochromatosis, or other blood-related disorders affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required for this test. You’ll need to collect a 24-hour sample of gastrointestinal fluid, often through a procedure called a GI washout or endoscopic collection. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
What Happens During the Test
The test involves collecting fluid from your gastrointestinal tract over 24 hours. This may be done through an endoscopy, colonoscopy, or other diagnostic procedures. The collected fluid is then analyzed to determine the percentage of HbF.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as a percentage of HbF relative to total hemoglobin in the sample. Elevated levels may indicate bleeding or other conditions affecting blood composition in the gastrointestinal tract. Your healthcare provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
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.
Elevated HbF in gastrointestinal fluid can suggest active bleeding, such as from peptic ulcers, diverticulosis, or other gastrointestinal bleeding sources. It may also be relevant in diagnosing or monitoring conditions affecting blood metabolism or storage in the GI tract. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.
Short name
HbF in GI fluid
Frequently asked questions
What does a high HbF percentage in GI fluid indicate?
How is this test different from a standard hemoglobin test?
Can I take medications before collecting the GI fluid sample?
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