How do you perform hemoglobin electrophoresis?

Hemoglobin electrophoresis is done by placing a small amount of blood on special paper or a special gel and exposing it to an electrical current. Different globins have different electrical charges and can be differentiated from one another based on their behaviors when exposed to an electrical current.

How do you read an Hb electrophoresis report?

High and low values

1. Higher-than-normal amounts of both hemoglobin A2 and hemoglobin F may mean a mild form of thalassemia is present.
2. Hemoglobin S in moderate amounts can mean that sickle cell trait is present.
3. Hemoglobin C in low amounts can mean that hemoglobin C trait is present.

What does hemoglobin electrophoresis show?

Hemoglobin electrophoresis measures hemoglobin levels and looks for abnormal types of hemoglobin. It’s most often used to help diagnose anemia, sickle cell disease, and other hemoglobin disorders.

What is Hb electrophoresis test in pregnancy?

Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a blood test that measures different types of a protein called hemoglobin in your red blood cells. It’s sometimes called “hemoglobin evaluation” or “sickle cell screen.” Newborns automatically get this test because it’s the law.

What is HbA2 and HbF?

Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) has two alpha and two gamma chains (alpha2 gamma2). Adult hemoglobin A (HbA) has two alpha and two beta chains (alpha2 beta2), whereas hemoglobin A2 (HbA2) has two alpha and two delta chains (alpha2 delta2).

What does electrophoresis test for?

Protein electrophoresis is used to identify and measure the presence of abnormal proteins, the absence of normal proteins, and/or to detect various protein electrophoresis patterns associated with certain conditions, as found in blood, urine or other body fluids.

What is normal hemoglobin electrophoresis?

In adults, these are normal percentages of different hemoglobin molecules: HbA: 95% to 98% (0.95 to 0.98) HbA2: 2% to 3% (0.02 to 0.03) HbE: Absent.

How does a hemoglobin electrophoresis test work?

In the lab, the technician places the blood sample on special paper and applies an electric current. The hemoglobins move on the paper and form bands that show the amount of each type of hemoglobin. No special preparation is necessary for this test. When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain.

Are there any risks in electrophoresis blood work?

Consequently, there is almost no risk, aside from the small risk of bruising, bleeding, or infection that is present with any test requiring the drawing of blood.

How is hemoglobin measured in the blood stream?

A hemoglobin electrophoresis test is a blood test used to measure and identify the different types of hemoglobin in your bloodstream. Hemoglobin is the protein inside red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen to your tissues and organs. Genetic mutations can cause your body to produce hemoglobin…

What does it mean to have hemoglobin E in blood?

Hemoglobin E in high amounts means hemoglobin E disease, which causes anemia and smaller-than-normal red blood cells. Hemoglobin types other than S, C, D, and E are rare. But over 350 types of abnormal hemoglobin have been found. Having a blood transfusion in the past 3 months. Having iron deficiency anemia.