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Hematologic findings in Southeast Asian immigrants with particular reference to hemoglobin E
Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science
|July 1, 1983
Summary
Southeast Asian immigrants frequently exhibit hematologic abnormalities, with hemoglobin E (HbE) and alpha-thalassemia minor being common. Many cases of microcytosis are linked to these inherited conditions, not solely iron deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Southeast Asian populations have a higher prevalence of inherited red blood cell disorders.
- Screening for hematologic abnormalities is crucial for early diagnosis and management in immigrant populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To screen recent Southeast Asian immigrants for hematologic abnormalities.
- To characterize the prevalence and types of hematologic conditions, including hemoglobinopathies and iron deficiency.
Main Methods:
- Utilized multichannel cell counter, peripheral smear, FEP, isoelectric focusing, and G6PD deficiency screening.
- Further defined abnormalities with hemoglobin electrophoresis, globin electrophoresis, HbA2, and HbF levels.
Main Results:
- 68 of 189 adults (36%) showed abnormalities, including 28 HbE heterozygotes, 6 HbE homozygotes, 14 alpha-thalassemia minor, and 10 iron deficiency.
- 52 of 54 individuals with microcytic red blood cells had HbE or thalassemia; 5 had both iron deficiency and hemoglobinopathy.
Conclusions:
- Hemoglobin E and alpha-thalassemia minor are prevalent in this immigrant group.
- Microcytosis in this population is often associated with inherited hemoglobinopathies, sometimes co-occurring with iron deficiency.