Hemoglobin is a protein containing the oxygen-binding iron (Fe) ion and it is located in the erythrocytes (red blood cell). Erythrocytes bind oxygen in the lungs and transport it to the tissues for metabolic use. There are various types of hemoglobin. Type HbA is the most abundant type in adults. It is composed of HbA1 and HbA2 molecules. HbF (fetal hemoglobin) and HBS (sickle cell hemoglobin – sickle cell anemia – Mediterranean anemia) are the other insignificant amounts in a healthy adult. The other least abundant types are Hemoglobin C (HbC) and Hemoglobin H (HbH) .
Interpretation:Hemoglobin electrophoresis is performed to diagnose Mediterranean anemia. Homozygous, heterozygous beta thalassemia and genetic HbF disease may also be observed with the result of this test. Complete blood (CBC) tests and MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) values of these patients are also low. If HbA2 is higher than expected, beta thalassemia or megaloblastic anemia is suspected, if HbH is high, alpha thalassemia is diagnosed. The results are interpreted and treated by hematologists.
Sample: Arm venous blood. Nonfasting
Working day: Every day
Result Time: The same day at 6 PM
