How to read hemoglobin electrophoresis test results

Hemoglobin electrophoresis is mainly used for screening and diagnosis of thalassemia. The results and normal values that can be detected by electrophoresis are 95% for HbA, 1.1% to 3.2% for HbA2, and 2% to 3% for HbA3. Their elevation and decrease have different clinical significance. Elevated HbA can be seen in megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B₁₂ or folic acid deficiency, and in some light forms of dysglobinopoietic anemias.Decreased HbA: seen in iron deficiency anemia.Elevated HbF: seen in pure B dysglobinopoietic anemia, heterozygous B dysglobinopoietic anemias, and in normal newborns. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is an important clinical tool for the diagnosis of hemoglobin-related diseases, and can be used to screen and classify thalassemia. Patients are advised to consult their physician for interpretation of the report.