Hemoglobin A2 levels in health and various hematologic disorders

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Clinical Chemistry

Background:

• Hemoglobin A2 (Hb A2) is a minor hemoglobin component.
• Quantifying Hb A2 aids in diagnosing various hematological disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the diagnostic utility of Hb A2 quantification in different anemias.
• To explore factors affecting Hb A2 levels in various clinical conditions.

Main Methods:

• Electrophoresis of hemolysates on cellulose acetate strips.
• Elution of hemoglobin bands for quantitative analysis of Hb A2.
• Analysis of blood samples from healthy individuals and patients with diverse diseases.

Main Results:

• Elevated Hb A2 levels were observed in beta-thalassemia heterozygotes and megaloblastic anemia.
• Low Hb A2 percentages were associated with iron-deficiency anemia, hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin, and Hb H disease.
• Iron and folate deficiency suppressed Hb A2 in beta-thalassemia heterozygotes, but vitamin B12 deficiency did not.

Conclusions:

• Hb A2 quantification is a valuable tool for differentiating anemias.
• Specific anemias and nutritional deficiencies significantly alter Hb A2 levels.
• Several other medical conditions do not appear to affect Hb A2 levels.