Hereditary persistence of fetal haemoglobin

**Definition:** Hereditary persistence of fetal haemoglobin (HPFH) associated with beta-thalassaemia is a haemoglobinopathy characterised by high haemoglobin (Hb)F levels and an increased number of fetal-Hb-containing cells. The association of HPFH with beta-thalassaemia mitigates the clinical manifestations which vary from a normal state to beta-thalassaemia intermedia.