Fetal Hemoglobin Concentration (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the level of fetal hemoglobin, a type of hemoglobin found in fetal red blood cells, which may be present in maternal blood under certain conditions.
["Assessing fetal hemoglobin helps evaluate potential blood-related conditions in pregnancy or blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 62243-1
- Short code
- MCH RBC Fetus Qn Auto
- Synonyms
- MCH RBC Fetus Qn Auto
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to check for conditions like fetal hemoglobin disorders, hemolytic diseases in newborns, or to monitor certain blood-related conditions in pregnant individuals. It can also be used in research or specialized clinical scenarios.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re pregnant, your healthcare provider will ensure it’s done safely.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are compared to expected ranges for fetal hemoglobin in maternal blood. Abnormal levels may indicate underlying health concerns that need further evaluation by a healthcare provider.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used in prenatal care to screen for conditions affecting fetal development, in newborns to diagnose hemolytic diseases, or in research studies involving fetal hemoglobin.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Fetal hemoglobin can be elevated in conditions like hydrops fetalis (a severe fetal condition) or certain genetic disorders. Low levels may suggest maternal-fetal blood incompatibility or other blood disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
Fetal Hb (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What is fetal hemoglobin and why is it measured in maternal blood?
How is this test different from a standard hemoglobin test?
Can this test be done during pregnancy without risk?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy