Hemoglobin F measurement is most commonly used to differentiate thalassemia from other hemoglobinopathies in which abnormalities in the polypeptide chains of globin may occur.
Hemoglobin F (fetal, HbF), is the blood hemoglobin during embryonic development and contains a polypeptide chain of globin that is different from that found in adult hemoglobin. It is the largest part of the hemoglobin of a newborn's red blood cells. During the first 6 months of life, most of the fetal hemoglobin is replaced by adult hemoglobin, although a small proportion of F hemoglobin may remain throughout life.
Hemoglobin F measurement is part of the Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test
What Do Pathological Values Mean?
- Increase: Anemia (aplastic, megaloblastic, pernicious, sickle cell anemia, spherocytosis), neurogenic anorexia, bone marrow metastases, neurogenic bulimia, diabetes, Down syndrome, erythroleukemia, hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, leukemia, lymphoma, macroglobulinemia, multiple myeloma, myelofibrosis, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, after stem cell transplantation, pregnancy (fetal blood flow to mother's blood), spherocytosis, thalassemia (homozygous, heterozygous), thyrotoxicosis, trisomy 13-15, trisomy D, trisomy 21. Medications: antispasmodic.
- Decrease: Multiple chromosomal abnormalities.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
