HPLC

What is HPLC?

Hemoglobin (Hb) electrophoresis by HPLC is used to identify the different types of hemoglobin present in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein present inside the red blood cells that functions to transport oxygen to the tissues and organs of the body. This test is done to diagnose blood disorders, as a screening test for genetic conditions, and monitor treatment efficacy in patients having blood disorders. It also detects abnormal hemoglobin types which may interfere with the oxygen flow.

Why is HPLC done?

• As a part of a routine checkup
• To diagnose blood disorders
• To monitor the treatment in patients having abnormal hemoglobin
• As a screening test for genetic conditions

What does HPLC Measure?

Hemoglobin (Hb) Electrophoresis by HPLC test measures and identifies different types of hemoglobin in the blood. A human body contains various types of hemoglobin in their blood. With age, the percentage of hemoglobin present in the body changes. Hemoglobin is the protein which is present inside the red blood cells. Its function is to transport oxygen to the tissues and organs of the body.

When there is a change in DNA sequence commonly called a mutation, the production of hemoglobin gets affected. These type of changes cause abnormality in hemoglobin and the normal working of healthy hemoglobin gets defected. This will result in a decreased amount of required oxygen transported to tissues and organs.

The different types of hemoglobin included in this test are:

• Hemoglobin A – Adult hemoglobin
• Hemoglobin F

Hemoglobin F is found in growing fetuses and newborns. It is soon replaced with hemoglobin A after birth. Hemoglobin A is found in children and adults. It is the most common type of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin C, D, E, M, and S are rare types of abnormal hemoglobin that occur due to genetic mutations.