Hemoglobin E (HbE) is an extremely common structural hemoglobin variant that occurs at high frequencies throughout many Asian countries. It is a β-hemoglobin variant, which is produced at a slightly reduced rate and hence has the phenotype of a mild form of β thalassemia.
What does Hb E trait means?
Hemoglobin E trait is an inherited blood disorder. That means it is passed down through your parent’s genes. It leads to an abnormal form of hemoglobin that may cause mild anemia. It occurs most often in people of Southeast Asian descent.
Does alpha thalassemia show up on electrophoresis?
Hemoglobin electrophoresis is normal in alpha thalassemia minima and minor. Electrophoresis will usually confirm the diagnosis of HbH disease, when up to 30% HbH can be detected.
What does alpha thalassemia trait mean?
When thalassemia is called “alpha” or “beta,” this refers to the part of hemoglobin that isn’t being made. If either the alpha or beta part is not made, there aren’t enough building blocks to make normal amounts of hemoglobin. Low alpha is called alpha thalassemia.
What is Hb E beta thalassemia?
Hb E/β-thalassemia, which is the most serious form of Hb E syndromes, is a condition that results from the coinheritance of a β-thalassemia minor trait from one parent and Hb E from the other. It ranges from mild to severe thalassemia of the transfusion-dependent type.
Does thalassemia trait cause anemia?
Thalassemia (thal-uh-SEE-me-uh) is an inherited blood disorder that causes your body to have less hemoglobin than normal. Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen. Thalassemia can cause anemia, leaving you fatigued.
How do you treat Hb E?
Treatment for hemoglobin E disease is typically not needed. Folic acid supplements may be prescribed to help the body produce normal red blood cells if mild anemia causes symptoms. Most people do not have any symptoms. People with hemoglobin E disease can expect to lead a normal life.
What are the Hb electrophoresis in thalassemia major?
If thalassemia is still suspected, a hemoglobin electrophoresis may help diagnose the condition. The hemoglobin electrophoresis with beta thalassemia trait usually has reduced or absent HbA, elevated levels of HbA2, and increased HbF.
How is alpha thalassemia trait diagnosed?
The following blood tests are done to check for the condition and to tell if you are a carrier and can pass the disorder on to your children:
- Complete blood count (CBC). This test checks the size, number, and maturity of different blood cells in a set volume of blood.
- Hemoglobin electrophoresis.
- Ferritin.
- DNA testing.
