Hemoglobin Electrophoresis

Results

A hemoglobin electrophoresis test is a blood test done to check the different types of hemoglobin in the blood. Results are ready in 1 day.

Normal

Hemoglobin electrophoresis

Hemoglobin A:	95% to 98% of total hemoglobin
Hemoglobin A2:	2% to 3% of total hemoglobin
Hemoglobin F:	Less than 2% of total hemoglobin
Abnormal hemoglobin types:	None

High and low values

• Higher-than-normal amounts of both hemoglobin A2 and hemoglobin F may mean a mild form of thalassemia is present. A very low level of hemoglobin A and a high level of hemoglobin F may mean a more severe form of thalassemia. High levels of hemoglobin F may be seen in a rare condition called hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin.
• Hemoglobin S in moderate amounts can mean that sickle cell trait is present. Hemoglobin S in high amounts means sickle cell anemia.
• Hemoglobin C in low amounts can mean that hemoglobin C trait is present. Hemoglobin C in high amounts means hemoglobin C disease, which causes anemia and an enlarged spleen.
• Hemoglobin types S and C mean hemoglobin S-C disease, which causes a mild or moderate form of sickle cell anemia.
• Hemoglobin E in low amounts means the presence of hemoglobin E trait. Hemoglobin E in high amounts means hemoglobin E disease, which causes anemia and smaller-than-normal red blood cells.
• Hemoglobin types other than S, C, D, and E are rare. However, over 400 types of abnormal hemoglobin have been found.

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Author:	Douglas Dana Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: November 30, 2006
Medical Review:	Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology
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