Hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin [HPFH]

This code identifies a benign, inherited condition where the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) persists into adulthood at clinically significant levels. Unlike other hemoglobinopathies, HPFH typically does not cause anemia or other significant health problems. It is often discovered incidentally during routine blood work or family screening.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin, often identified through hemoglobin electrophoresis or genetic testing. This diagnosis is typically made in asymptomatic individuals who show elevated HbF levels without other signs of a hemolytic disorder or thalassemia.

• Do not confuse with other hemoglobinopathies that cause clinical symptoms, such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia.
• Often co-occurs with other hemoglobin disorders, in which case both conditions should be coded.
• Requires definitive diagnostic confirmation, such as laboratory findings of elevated HbF or genetic testing results.