ICSH recommendations for the measurement of Haemoglobin F

SUMMARY Measurement of the Haemoglobin F in red cell haemolysates is important in the diagnosis of db thalassaemia, hereditary persistence of fetal haemoglobin (HPFH) and in the diagnosis and management of sickle cell disease. The distribution of Hb F in red cells is useful in the diagnosis of HPFH and in the assessment of fetomaternal haemorrhage. The methods of quantifying Hb F are described together with pitfalls in undertaking these laboratory tests with particular emphasis on automated high-performance liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis.