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Fetal Hemoglobin Mass Concentration in Cord Blood

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your baby’s blood drawn at birth. Fetal hemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin found in newborns that differs from the hemoglobin typically found in adults.

Quick summary

["Fetal hemoglobin levels can help assess your baby’s health and development at birth."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
62246-4
Short code
MCHC RBC Fetus Auto-EntMCnc
Synonyms
MCHC RBC Fetus Auto-EntMCnc
Category
hematology
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.2
Ref high
5.9
Critical range
2 N/A – 7 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
automated-count
CPT
85041
SNOMED
900000000000003001
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have concerns about your baby’s blood health, such as potential anemia, genetic conditions, or if you’ve had complications during pregnancy. It can also be part of routine newborn screening in some cases.

What Does the Test Measure?

The test specifically measures the mass concentration of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in your baby’s blood sample. Fetal hemoglobin is important because it carries oxygen efficiently in a newborn’s smaller, more active circulatory system.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A small amount of blood is collected from your baby’s umbilical cord or heel stick during the newborn screening process. The blood is processed and analyzed to determine the fetal hemoglobin mass concentration.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as a mass concentration value, which helps healthcare providers interpret whether the levels are within expected ranges for a newborn. Abnormal results may prompt further evaluation.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fetal Hb Mass (Cord Blood)

Frequently asked questions

What does this test mean for my baby’s health?
Fetal hemoglobin levels can indicate whether your baby has conditions affecting red blood cell production or structure, such as thalassemia or other hemoglobinopathies. High levels may suggest certain genetic disorders, while low levels could be associated with anemia or other blood-related issues. Your healthcare provider will discuss results in the context of your baby’s overall health and medical history.
How soon will I receive my baby’s results?
Results from this test are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the findings and any next steps.
Can I influence the results of this test?
No, this test measures a biological characteristic of your baby’s blood and cannot be influenced by diet, lifestyle, or other external factors during the immediate newborn period. Results are based on the natural development of your baby’s blood cells.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy