Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Blood Test

Also called: Hgb Electrophoresis, Hb Electrophoresis

Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Blood Test

What Is a Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test?

A hemoglobin electrophoresis (HEE-muh-glow-bin eh-lek-truh-fer-EE-sis) blood test measures the different types of hemoglobin — the protein inside red blood cells that carries oxygen. Normal hemoglobin carries and delivers oxygen well, but other kinds don’t.

In the test, a blood sample is put on special paper, and a small electric current separates the hemoglobins to show how much of each kind there is.

Why Are Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Tests Done?

Doctors may order the test to:

• help diagnose and monitor conditions related to different types of hemoglobin, like sickle cell disease or thalassemia (thahl-uh-SEE-mee-uh)
• check parents for kinds of anemia that are genetic (passed from parent to child)

Hemoglobin electrophoresis tests are usually included in newborn screening tests. This lets doctors find and treat conditions linked to different types of hemoglobin right away.

Top Things to Know

• The hemoglobin electrophoresis blood test checks for different kinds of hemoglobin and their amounts.
• The test can help diagnose and monitor blood problems that involve different types of hemoglobin.
• Blood transfusions, iron supplements, and some medical conditions may alter the results of the test.
• Your doctor can explain what it means if levels of different hemoglobins are high or low.

How Can I Help My Child Prepare for a Blood Test?

To help kids 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 nervous about it, work together on ways to stay calm. Deep breathing or even imagining being in a place that makes your child feel safe and relaxed can help.

What Do Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test Results Mean?

When levels of some kinds of hemoglobins are high or low, it could mean that a child has a blood condition like thalassemia, sickle cell trait, or sickle cell disease.

Your doctor will explain what the results of the test mean for your child. What’s “normal” can vary based on things like age and gender.

What Else Should I Know?

Certain things can affect the results of the hemoglobin electrophoresis test, so let your doctor know if your child:

• has iron-deficiency anemia
• is taking iron supplements
• has a thyroid or kidney problem
• has had a blood transfusion in the last three months

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