Blood test
Haemoglobin Electrophoresis
Haemoglobin electrophoresis identifies the different types of haemoglobin in your blood to diagnose inherited conditions such as thalassaemia and sickle cell disease.
Quick answer
Haemoglobin Electrophoresis: what it is and what the results mean
Haemoglobin electrophoresis separates and measures the different forms of haemoglobin — the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. It detects abnormal or unusual amounts of haemoglobin types.
- Why it is done: It is used to diagnose and characterise inherited haemoglobin disorders such as thalassaemia and sickle cell disease, to identify carriers, and as part of antenatal and pre-conception screening.
- Understanding results: The pattern of haemoglobin types shows whether you have a normal result, a carrier (trait) state, or a haemoglobin disorder such as thalassaemia or sickle cell disease.
What it is
Haemoglobin electrophoresis separates and measures the different forms of haemoglobin — the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. It detects abnormal or unusual amounts of haemoglobin types.
Why it is done
It is used to diagnose and characterise inherited haemoglobin disorders such as thalassaemia and sickle cell disease, to identify carriers, and as part of antenatal and pre-conception screening.
What to expect
It is an ordinary blood test from a vein in the arm, needing no special preparation. It is often done alongside a full blood count and iron studies.
Understanding the results
The pattern of haemoglobin types shows whether you have a normal result, a carrier (trait) state, or a haemoglobin disorder such as thalassaemia or sickle cell disease. Results guide treatment and genetic counselling.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
It is a safe blood test. Recent blood transfusion can affect results, and interpreting carrier states for family planning usually needs specialist input.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Haemoglobin Electrophoresis: frequently asked questions
What conditions does this test detect?
It detects inherited haemoglobin disorders including the thalassaemias and sickle cell disease, and identifies carriers of these conditions, which is important for individuals and for family planning.
Can a recent transfusion affect the result?
Yes. Donor blood contains normal haemoglobin, which can mask your own pattern for some weeks, so the test may be delayed or repeated after a transfusion.
Related tests
Other blood test investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- British Society for Haematology / relevant professional body
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