Blood Test: Hemoglobin Electrophoresis

What Is a Blood Test?

By taking and testing a small sample of a person’s blood, doctors can check for many kinds of diseases and conditions. Blood tests help doctors check how the body’s organs are working and see if medical treatments are helpful.

To help your child get ready for a blood test, find out if they need to fast (not eat or drink) or should stop taking medicines before the test. Explain what to expect during the test. If your child is anxious about it, work together on ways to stay calm.

What Is a Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test?

Hemoglobin (HEE-muh-glow-bin) is the protein inside red blood cells that carries oxygen. A hemoglobin electrophoresis (eh-lek-truh-fer-EE-sis) blood test measures the different types of hemoglobin. Normal hemoglobin carries and delivers oxygen well, but some abnormal types do not.

Why Are Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Tests Done?

Doctors may order the test to help diagnose conditions related to abnormal types of hemoglobin, such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia. Let the doctor know if your child has had a blood transfusion. This can affect the hemoglobin electrophoresis test.

What if I Have Questions?

If you have questions about the hemoglobin electrophoresis test or what the test results mean, talk to your doctor.