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Abnormal Hemoglobin Test
The Abnormal Hemoglobin Studies test, commonly referred to as Hemoglobin Electrophoresis, is a laboratory test that analyzes the different types of hemoglobin present in the blood.
Hemoglobin is a crucial protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
This test separates various hemoglobin types based on their electrical charge, allowing for a detailed evaluation of an individual’s hemoglobin composition.
It is particularly useful for detecting inherited hemoglobin variants and diagnosing conditions such as anemia, thalassemia, and sickle cell disease.
Clinical Manifestations of Abnormal Hemoglobin
Hemoglobinopathies encompass a range of genetic diseases that manifest through various clinical symptoms, which can include:
- Anemia: Patients may experience fatigue, weakness, and pallor due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.
- Pain Crises: In conditions like sickle cell disease, patients may suffer from acute pain episodes due to vaso-occlusive crises.
- Jaundice: This can occur due to hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), leading to elevated bilirubin levels.
- Growth Delays: Children with severe forms of hemoglobin disorders may experience growth retardation.
Diagnostic Approach
The diagnosis typically involves:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): To assess overall blood health and detect anemia.
- Hemoglobin Electrophoresis: This test separates different types of hemoglobin based on their charge, allowing for the identification of abnormal variants.
- Peripheral Blood Smear: Examination of blood under a microscope can reveal characteristic changes in red blood cell morphology.
Common Hemoglobin Variants
The following are notable hemoglobin variants identified through abnormal hemoglobin studies:
- Hemoglobin S (HbS): Associated with sickle cell disease; characterized by sickle-shaped red blood cells.
- Hemoglobin C (HbC): Can lead to mild hemolytic anemia; characterized by target cells on blood smears.
- Hemoglobin E (HbE): common in Southeast Asia; often leads to mild microcytic anemia.
- Thalassemia: A group of inherited disorders resulting in reduced or absent production of one or more globin chains.
Indications of the Abnormal Hemoglobin Test
Healthcare providers typically recommend this test for several reasons:
- Diagnosis of Hemoglobin Disorders: It identifies various hemoglobin disorders, including sickle cell disease and thalassemia.
- Monitoring Disease Progression: For patients already diagnosed with hemoglobin disorders, it helps track changes over time.
- Genetic Screening: It is essential for individuals planning to start a family to determine if they carry abnormal hemoglobin variants.
- Follow-up on Abnormal Blood Test Results: If routine blood tests indicate abnormal hemoglobin levels, this test provides further insight.
Patient Preparation/Instructions
No special preparation is required before undergoing this test. However, it is advisable to inform your healthcare provider if you have had a blood transfusion within the last 12 weeks, as this may affect the results.
Typical Reference Values
Normal reference values for adults are as follows:
- Hemoglobin A (HbA): 95% to 98%
- Hemoglobin A2 (HbA2): 2% to 3%
- Fetal Hemoglobin (HbF): 0.8% to 2%
- Hemoglobin S (HbS): Absent
- Hemoglobin C (HbC): Absent
These values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory conducting the test.
Turnaround Time for Abnormal Hemoglobin Test
The results of the abnormal hemoglobin studies are typically available within a few days, depending on the laboratory’s processing capabilities.
How To Order This Test
To order the Abnormal Hemoglobin Studies in Kenya test, please click the ‘Order Test’ button and add it to your cart. This will initiate the process for you to receive this important diagnostic evaluation.
Alternatively, you can visit us at Hurlingham Court, Argwings Khodek road, Nairobi.
