Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test

Understanding Blood Composition

With Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test

Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test is a laboratory test that is used to identify and quantify different types of hemoglobin in the blood sample. Hemoglobin is a protein found in the red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to body organs and tissues and returns carbon dioxide to the lungs to exhale. Hemoglobin electrophoresis test enables determining the levels of different groups of hemoglobin and helps in screening and identifying blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia's. The test also helps in determining the risks of passing the hemoglobin disorders to offspring.

Overview of the Key Aspects of the Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test

Purpose of this test: 

Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test is crucial for diagnosing and classifying hemoglobin disorders and it plays an important role in guiding treatment and management strategies for individuals with hemoglobin disorders. It also determines carrier status for serious conditions such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia.

Procedure: 

●       A small blood sample is collected from the arm of the patient and then sample is then collected into the tube lined with anticoagulant to prevent clotting.

●       The collected blood sample is then treated to break RBCs and release hemoglobin.

●       The hemoglobin mixture is then applied to a gel which acts a a medium for the separation process.

●     An electric current is then applied to the gel and the hemoglobin molecules that carry different charges move through the gel at a speed depending on the electric charge they carry and their size.

●       On application of electric current, the hemoglobin molecules separate into distinct bands depending on their charge and size.

●       After electrophoresis, the gel is stained to visualise the separated bands and the gel is then examined by a trained technician or medical professional.

●       The result of this analysis provides detailed information about the relative quantities of different hemoglobin types present in the blood.

●       The results are then interpreted by healthcare providers and he/she will discuss with the patients if any abnormalities are found.

Benefits: 

●       Relatively quick, painless, non-invasive, and safe

●       Helps in diagnosing hemoglobin-related disorders such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia

●       Enables detection of disorders before symptoms manifest and helps in early treatment implementation

●       Provides valuable information for genetic counselling

●       Helps healthcare providers create tailored treatment and management plans for patients with hemoglobin disorders

●       Helps in monitoring disease progression and treatment effectiveness

●       Helps in accurate screening of carriers and contributes significantly to epidemiological research and studies

Patients must inform their healthcare provider about their complete medical history including underlying conditions, current medications, supplements intake, or any recent surgical procedure as it will help them create a better picture of the overall health. Patients may be advised to refrain from rigorous exercises, smoking or drinking, and blood donation before the test as it might affect the levels of hemoglobin in the blood. Follow any instructions given by the healthcare providers regarding medications as certain medications might need to be stopped before the test for accurate results. Patients must discuss with the healthcare provider if they have any bleeding disorders or are pregnant as these might impact the test and might require additional precautionary measures.