Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)

Also known as Hb Electrophoresis, Abnormal Hb studies

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Record the date of birth, sex, race and religion on the test request form for sample collection.

Understanding Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)

What is Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)?

Hemoglobin HPLC/ Electrophoresis is used to identify the different types of hemoglobin present in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein present inside the red blood cells that function to transport oxygen to the tissues and organs of the body. This test is done to diagnose blood disorders, as a screening test for genetic conditions, and to monitor treatment efficacy in patients having blood disorders. It also detects abnormal hemoglobin types which may interfere with the oxygen flow.

What is Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) used for?

As a part of a routine checkup
To diagnose blood disorders
To monitor the treatment in patients having abnormal hemoglobin
As a screening test for genetic conditions

Interpreting Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) results

Interpretations

In children

Age	Hemoglobin F
Newborn	60 to 80%
1+ Year	1 to 2%

In adults

Normal levels

Type of Hemoglobin	Percentage
Hemoglobin A	95% - 98%
Hemoglobin A2	2% - 3%
Hemoglobin F	1% - 2%

All the results should be carefully analyzed and interpreted in correlation with the patient's signs and symptoms and other laboratory findings.

Increased levels of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) on HPLC is associated with beta-thalassemia major. Sometimes, it can also be seen in sickle cell anemia
High HbA2 levels are mostly associated with beta thalassemia minor or trait. Recent studies say that HbA2 level between 4% and 9% indicates beta thalassemia trait

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)

Frequently Asked Questions about Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)

Q. How is the blood sample taken?

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?

As such there is no risk but in few cases, bruising, bleeding, and infection at the puncture site can be seen. In very few cases, there can be swelling of the vein after the blood is withdrawn.

Q. In which conditions abnormal hemoglobin levels can be seen?

The abnormal hemoglobin levels can be seen in the following conditions: -> Hemoglobin C disease - It is a genetic disorder which leads to severe anemia. -> Rare hemoglobinopathy - They are a group of genetic disorders which cause the abnormal production or structure of red blood cells. -> Thalassemia - It is a condition in which there is less production of hemoglobin than what is required by the body to function properly. -> Sickle cell anemia - In this, Red Blood Cells take irregular shape which results in blocking of passage for the blood to flow.

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