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Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a test that is performed to measure the different types of hemoglobin in a person’s blood. It is performed when a doctor suspects that a patient has a genetic disease or disorder that stems from having abnormal hemoglobin, such as sickle cell anemia. In this form of electrophoresis, the hemoglobin particles are placed in an electric field.
There are four primary types of hemoglobin:
- Hemoglobin A, which is the
major component of hemoglobin in an adult’s red blood
cells
- Hemoglobin C, which is a
hemoglobin variant primarily found in the black
population that can cause hemolytic anemia
- Hemoglobin F, which is the
major component of hemoglobin in a fetus but still
exists in small quantities in adults
- Hemoglobin S, which is a hemoglobin variant primarily found in the black population that can cause sickle cell anemia
Because
of their varying electrical charges, when placed in this
electric field, the hemoglobin particles will move and
separate according to their specific types and form
“bands.” A comparison of these bands to a normal blood
sample will assist in diagnosing whether or not the
person suffers from a disorder like sickle cell anemia.
The CAPILLARYS 2, Sebia’s completely automated instrument,
test menu consists of a hemoglobin assay that can aid in the diagnosis of
hemoglobinopathies and thalassemia and is designed to separate, detect, and quantify normal hemoglobins and hemoglobin variants.
The HYDRASYS®,
Sebia’s semi-automated instrument, test menu
consists of alkaline and acid hemoglobin electrophoresis
assays.
To find out more about exciting advancements concerning totally
automated hemoglobin electrophoresis testing via capillary electrophoresis, please
contact us today.
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