Test Detail
Understanding the Test
Test Measures
Interpreting Results
FAQ's
City Price Info
Home Collection
References
Other Tests
Content created by
Reviewed by
Dr. Hitesh Tiwari
MD Pathology, MBBS
Want to know more?
Read our Editorial Policy

Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)

Also known as Hb Electrophoresis, Abnormal Hb studies, Hemoglobin variant analysis
9291080 13% Off
You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
  1. Record the date of birth, sex, race and religion on the test request form for sample collection.

Understanding Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)


What is Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)?

The Hemoglobin High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (Hb HPLC) test is used to identify and quantify normal and abnormal forms of hemoglobin present in the blood. This test helps diagnose and monitor various blood disorders, such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease.

Hemoglobin (Hb) is an iron-rich protein that carries oxygen to organs and tissues. An Hb HPLC test provides a detailed analysis of the different types of hemoglobin, including HbA (normal adult hemoglobin) and various abnormal hemoglobin variants such as HbD and HbF (fetal hemoglobin). It identifies certain disorders characterized by abnormal hemoglobin production. Furthermore, for individuals undergoing treatments such as blood transfusions or medications, the Hb HPLC test helps the doctor monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make adjustments as needed.

Your doctor may suggest an Hb HPLC test when a blood disorder such as thalassemia, or sickle cell disease is suspected (symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, pale skin, cold feet and hands, long-term infection, breath shortness, rapid heart rate, or significant weight loss). Additionally, individuals with a family history of inherited blood disorders, unexplained anemia, abnormal red blood cell indices, or abnormal findings on routine hemoglobin and hematocrit tests may also undergo Hb HPLC testing.

Fasting is not required for an Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test. Let the doctor know if you have a recent history of blood transfusion, as it can affect the test results.

Test result ranges are approximate and vary depending on age, gender, health history, and methodology used by the laboratories. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Your doctor may consider several additional factors while interpreting the significance of abnormal hemoglobin, including your family history, the results of your CBC, and more. Based on your test results, the doctor decides whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition and formulate your overall treatment plan.

What is Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) used for?

An Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) can be done:

  • To determine different types of hemoglobin present in the blood, including normal and abnormal forms.
  • As a screening test for genetic conditions characterized by abnormal hemoglobin production like thalassemia or sickle cell disease.
  • To monitor the effectiveness of treatments in individuals with hemoglobinopathies.
  • To monitor your health if you have a family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other genetic blood disorders.
  • As a follow-up of abnormal red blood cell indices or abnormal findings on routine hemoglobin and hematocrit tests.

What does Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) measure?

An Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test is used to identify and quantify different types of hemoglobin in the blood to diagnose and monitor specific blood disorders. Different types of hemoglobin are Adult type (HbA2), Fetal type (HbF), Hemoglobin S (HbS), Hemoglobin C (HbC), and Hemoglobin E (HbE), etc.

Normal types of hemoglobin include:

  • Hemoglobin (Hgb) A: The most common type of hemoglobin in healthy adults
  • Hemoglobin (Hgb) F: Fetal hemoglobin, which is found in unborn babies and newborns. HgbF is replaced by HgbA shortly after birth.

A deranged level of HgbA or HgbF might indicate certain types of anemia.

Abnormal types of hemoglobin include:

  • Hemoglobin (Hgb) S: This type of hemoglobin is found in sickle cell anemia, an inherited disorder that causes the body to make stiff, sickle-shaped red blood cells. Sickle cells can get stuck in the blood vessels, causing severe pain, long-term infections, and other complications.
  • Hemoglobin (Hgb) C: This type of hemoglobin is associated with hemolytic anemia that develops when your red blood cells are destroyed more easily than normal red blood cells or have a shorter life span than normal red blood cells. 
  • Hemoglobin (Hgb) E: This type of hemoglobin is mainly found in people of Southeast Asian descent and may be associated with mild anemia or no symptoms. 
  • Hemoglobin (Hgb) D: Hb D disease (HbDD) is characterized by mild hemolytic anemia and mild to moderate splenomegaly. Hb D Punjab occurs with the most significant prevalence in Gujarat and Sikhs of Punjab.

Interpreting Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) results


Interpretations

In children 

Age

Hemoglobin F

Newborn

60 to 80%

1+ Year

1 to 2%

In adults

Normal levels

Type of Hemoglobin

Percentage

Hemoglobin A

95% - 98%

Hemoglobin A2

2% - 3%

Hemoglobin F

1% - 2%

 

 

 All the results should be carefully analyzed and interpreted in correlation with the patient's signs and symptoms and other laboratory findings. 

  • Increased fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels on HPLC are associated with beta-thalassemia major. Sometimes, it can also be seen in sickle cell anemia. 

  • High HbA2 levels are primarily associated with beta thalassemia minor or trait. Recent studies say that HbA2 level between 4% and 9% indicates beta thalassemia trait

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)


Frequently Asked Questions about Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC)

Q. What happens during an Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test?

Your phlebotomist will collect the blood sample in a vial/test tube during the test. The test tube is then submitted to the labs for analysis. During testing, your blood sample is segregated into different hemoglobin bands and is compared to a standard hemoglobin sample to give accurate test results.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test?

There are minimal risks associated with the Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test. You might experience slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was inserted. The risk of infection or excessive bleeding is very low.

Q. What factors can affect my Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test results?

Several factors can affect your test results, including nutrition, age, gender, altitude where you live, smoking, certain medications, and underlying health conditions.

Q. Can this test be used to screen family members for hemoglobin disorders?

Yes, this test can be used as a screening tool for family members, especially if there is a known history of hemoglobin disorders. It can be particularly useful in making informed decisions regarding family planning.

Q. Is this test done for newborns?

Yes, an Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) can be performed as a part of newborn screening tests to detect hemoglobin disorders early and initiate timely management.

Q. What is hemoglobinopathy?

Hemoglobinopathy is a clinical term that describes a group of blood disorders in which there is abnormal production or structure of the hemoglobin molecule. It is passed down through families (inherited).

Q. What are the common examples of hemoglobinopathies?

Hemoglobin C disease, hemoglobin S-C disease, sickle cell anemia, and thalassemia are common hemoglobinopathies.

Q. In which conditions abnormal hemoglobin levels can be seen?

The abnormal hemoglobin levels can be seen in the following conditions: 1) Hemoglobin C disease - A genetic disorder that leads to severe anemia. 2) Rare hemoglobinopathy - A group of genetic disorders that cause red blood cells' abnormal production or structure. 3) Thalassemia - It is a condition in which there is less production of hemoglobin than what is required by the body to function correctly. 4) Sickle cell anemia - In this, red blood cells take an irregular shape, blocking passage for the blood to flow.

Q. What are the complications of thalassemia?

The complications of thalassemia include infection, iron overload, bone deformities, enlarged spleen, slow growth rates, and heart problems.

Q. How can I increase my hemoglobin levels if they are low?

Always consult your doctor if your test results show low hemoglobin. However, increasing iron intake through diet or supplements and increasing vitamin C intake to enhance iron absorption can help to increase hemoglobin levels.
+ more

Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) test price for other cities


Price inGurgaonRs. 929
Price inBangaloreRs. 929
Price inKolkataRs. 929
Price inMumbaiRs. 929
Price inPuneRs. 929
+ more

Book Hb HPLC (Hb Variants Estimation by HPLC) at-home

Easy online booking
Search for tests and packages, book a time and select address for seamless at-home lab tests.
Live tracking of phlebotomist
Stay informed with live tracking of our phlebotomist's location for seamless sample collection.
Safe collection
Our phlebotomists follow strict safety protocols to collect samples at home on time.
Sample received at lab
Your sample is bought to our laboratory for testing by our qualified experts.
Quick reports, free follow up
Reports are sent to your email. A free doctor follow up is provided to understand the report better.

References

  1. Wajcman H, Moradkhani K. Abnormal haemoglobins: detection & characterization. Indian J Med Res. 2011 Oct;134(4):538-46. PMID: 22089618; PMCID: PMC3237254. [Accessed 30 Oct. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3237254/ External Link
  2. Kohne E. Hemoglobinopathies: clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2011 Aug;108(31-32):532-40. [Accessed 30 Oct. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3163784/ External Link
  3. Forget BG, Bunn HF. Classification of the disorders of hemoglobin. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med. 2013 Feb 1;3(2):a011684. [Accessed 30 Oct. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3552344/ External Link
  4. Khera R, Singh T, Khuana N, Gupta N, Dubey AP. HPLC in characterization of hemoglobin profile in thalassemia syndromes and hemoglobinopathies: a clinicohematological correlation. Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus. 2015 Mar;31(1):110-5. [Accessed 30 Oct. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4275515/ External Link
  5. What is Thalassemia? [Internet]. CDC; 24 April 2023; [Accessed 30 Oct. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/thalassemia/facts.html External Link
  6. What is Sickle Cell Disease? [Internet]. CDC; 06 July 6 2023; [Accessed 30 Oct. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/facts.html External Link
  7. Billett HH. Hemoglobin and Hematocrit. In: Walker HK, Hall WD, Hurst JW, editors. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd edition. Boston: Butterworths; 1990. Chapter 151. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK259/ External Link
  8. Ahmed MH, Ghatge MS, Safo MK. Hemoglobin: Structure, Function and Allostery. Subcell Biochem. 2020;94:345-382. [Accessed 30 Oct. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7370311/ External Link

INDIA’S LARGEST HEALTHCARE PLATFORM

260m+
Visitors
31m+
Orders Delivered
1800+
Cities
Get the link to download App
Reliable

All products displayed on Tata 1mg are procured from verified and licensed pharmacies. All labs listed on the platform are accredited

Secure

Tata 1mg uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) 128-bit encryption and is Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliant

Affordable

Find affordable medicine substitutes, save up to 50% on health products, up to 80% off on lab tests and free doctor consultations.

Know more about Tata 1mgdownArrow

Access medical and health information

Tata 1mg provides you with medical information which is curated, written and verified by experts, accurate and trustworthy. Our experts create high-quality content about medicines, diseases, lab investigations, Over-The-Counter (OTC) health products, Ayurvedic herbs/ingredients, and alternative remedies.

Order medicines online

Get free medicine home delivery in over 1800 cities across India. You can also order Ayurvedic, Homeopathic and other Over-The-Counter (OTC) health products. Your safety is our top priority. All products displayed on Tata 1mg are procured from verified and licensed pharmacies.

Book lab tests

Book any lab tests and preventive health packages from certified labs and get tested from the comfort of your home. Enjoy free home sample collection, view reports online and consult a doctor online for free.

Consult a doctor online

Got a health query? Consult doctors online from the comfort of your home for free. Chat privately with our registered medical specialists to connect directly with verified doctors. Your privacy is guaranteed.