No fasting is needed. Call 8872524007 to ask about the expected report date.
What the Hb Electrophoresis test checks
Most labs in India now use HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) or capillary electrophoresis rather than older gel methods. The machine reports percentages of:
- HbA, the main adult haemoglobin
- HbA2, a small fraction that rises in beta thalassaemia trait
- HbF, fetal haemoglobin, high in babies and in some conditions in adults
- variants such as HbS (sickle), HbE and HbD-Punjab, a variant found in our region
The sample is collected at Alpha Laboratory and processed in-house or at a partner reference laboratory, depending on the test.
Why your doctor may order it
- antenatal screening, ideally in the first trimester
- a couple planning marriage or a pregnancy, especially if either family has a child with thalassaemia
- anaemia with small red cells on a CBC that doesn't improve with iron
- a relative found to be a carrier
- suspected sickle cell disease or another variant
When both partners are beta thalassaemia carriers, each pregnancy has a 1 in 4 chance of a child with thalassaemia major. A doctor or genetic counsellor can explain the options; this thalassemia test is the first step, not the final answer.
How to prepare
No fasting. Two things affect accuracy. A blood transfusion within the last three months mixes donor haemoglobin into the result, so tell us the date. Iron deficiency can lower HbA2 and hide a beta thalassaemia trait, so your doctor may check iron levels as well and sometimes repeat the test after iron treatment.
Sample type and report time
About 2–3 mL of blood in a purple-top EDTA tube. Home sample collection is available. Report time is usually 1–3 working days; we'll tell you the expected date when you book.
Understanding your results
In adults HbA is usually above 95%, HbA2 around 2–3.5% and HbF under about 1%. An HbA2 of more than about 3.5%, with small red cells on the CBC, is typical of beta thalassaemia trait. The ranges printed on your report are the ones that apply, as methods vary.
Alpha thalassaemia trait usually shows a normal pattern, so it needs DNA testing if suspected. Abnormal peaks are named on the report and may need confirmation. Your doctor reads the result alongside your symptoms and other tests, including haemoglobin and red cell indices.
FAQ
Is a thalassaemia carrier ill?
Most carriers (trait) are healthy, sometimes with mild anaemia. That mild anaemia isn't caused by low iron, so your doctor will check before advising anything.
Can a newborn have Hb electrophoresis?
Yes, but normal newborn patterns differ because HbF is high. Results are read with age in mind.
Where can I get an hb electrophoresis test near me in Banur?
If you need an hb electrophoresis test near me in Banur, Alpha Laboratory collects the sample at the lab or at home.
Should both partners be tested?
Usually yes, if one partner is a carrier. Your doctor will guide you.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
For your hb electrophoresis test, bring your recent CBC and any transfusion details. Call 8872524007, WhatsApp us, or reach us from the contact page.