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Hemoglobin F

Test Codes

EPIC: LAB1231295

Department

Immunology

Specimen Collection Criteria

Collect: One Lavender-top EDTA tube. (Minimum Whole Blood: 1.0 mL)
Also acceptable (Pediatric): One 500 mcL Lavender-top EDTA Microtainer®. (Minimum Whole Blood: 250 mcL)

Physician Office/Draw Specimen Preparation

Do not centrifuge. Do not freeze. Store whole blood refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F) prior to transport. (Minimum Whole Blood: 1.0 mL)

Preparation for Courier Transport

Transport: Whole blood specimen, refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F). (Minimum Whole Blood: 1.0 mL)

Rejection Criteria

• Centrifuged specimens.
• Frozen specimens.
• Severely hemolyzed samples.

In-Lab Processing

Do not centrifuge.

Do not freeze.

Storage

Specimen Stability for Testing:

Room Temperature (20-26°C or 68-78.8°F): 48 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below): Unacceptable

Specimen Storage in Department Prior to Disposal:

Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): 7 days

Laboratory

Royal Oak Special Chemistry Laboratory

Performed

Monday – Friday (day shift only). 
Results are available in 3-5 business days.

Reference Range

0 – 30 days	22.8 - 92.0
31 days – 5 months	1.6 - 89.8
6 – 12 months	0.0 - 16.7
13 – 23 months	0.0 - 7.9
24 months – Adult	0.0 - 0.9

Test Methodology

Capillary Electrophoresis

Interpretation

Hgb F levels are much higher in the neonate than an older child or adult. Hgb F may be slightly increased in ß thalassemia trait (up to 10%) and moderately increased in delta-beta thalassemia (up to 20%). It is also increased in hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin, a condition most commonly seen in African Americans. Slight increases may also be acquired and can occur with several bone marrow abnormalities (e.g., leukemias, aplastic anemia), severe anemias, with hydroxyurea therapy and in pregnancy.

Clinical Utility

This assay is used to quantitate the percent of fetal hemoglobin in the specimen. It aids in the diagnosis of disorders with elevated levels of fetal hemoglobin and various hemoglobinopathies.

CPT Codes

83020

Contacts

Last Updated

2/21/2025