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Abnormal hemoglobins testing

Abnormal Hemoglobin Testing

Hemoglobin is a major substance found in red blood cells. Abnormal hemoglobin testing is used to accurately diagnose inherited and acquired diseases involving hemoglobin, which is the oxygen-carrying pigment of red blood cells. Abnormal hemoglobin is an indication of a disease.

Preparation for Abnormal Hemoglobin Testing

No preparation is needed for an abnormal hemoglobin test. However, for best results, patients should tell their healthcare providers about any medications they may be taking that could affect the test results.

Procedure for Abnormal Hemoglobin Testing

An abnormal hemoglobin test is usually performed using a blood sample from one or more of the following sources:

  • A peripheral vein
  • A heel stick
  • A finger prick

Types of Abnormal Hemoglobin Testing

There are several different types of abnormal hemoglobin tests:

  • Gel Electrophoresis – A laboratory procedure used to separate hemoglobin into individual proteins using electricity.
  • High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) – A laboratory procedure used to measure the levels of different kinds of hemoglobin.
  • Spectrophotometry – A laboratory procedure used to measure the amount of hemoglobin in a sample.
  • Immunochemical Assay – A laboratory procedure used to detect the abnormality of a particular kind of hemoglobin.

Risks of Abnormal Hemoglobin Testing

There are no known risks associated with abnormal hemoglobin testing.

Why is Abnormal Hemoglobin Testing Performed?

Abnormal hemoglobin testing is performed to diagnose inherited and acquired diseases involving abnormal hemoglobin. Examples of these diseases include sickle cell anemia and thalassemias.

When is Abnormal Hemoglobin Testing Performed?

Abnormal hemoglobin testing is usually performed when a person is experiencing symptoms of a hemoglobin-related disease. These symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, or pale skin. An abnormal hemoglobin test is also performed when a doctor suspects that a person has a hemoglobin-related disease.

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