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Fetal Hemoglobin/ HbF. |
| Test | Fetal Hemoglobin/ HbF. |
| Indication | The test is used to evaluate hemaglobinopathies, hemolytic anemia, hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin, Thalassemia. |
| Physiology | Fetal hemoglobin is formed of two α-chains and two γ-chains. It is the major hemoglobin during fetal life. HbF levels decrease after birth by 3% to 4% each week. In 2-3 weeks fetal hemoglobin is about 65%. By 6 months of age fetal hemoglobin is < 2% of the total hemoglobin. |
| Normal Range | 0 – 6 months : Upto 75% of HbF, 6 months - Adult: Up to 2% HbF |
| Related Tests | Hemolytic disease of newborn, Kleinauer-betke, Sickle Cell test |
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