Hemoglobin Variant Analysis Test (HPLC Test) in Lucknow

Introduction to HPLC Test or Hemoglobin Variant Analysis at Redcliffe Labs in Lucknow

Thalassemia and other hemoglobin disorders are significant health concerns affecting millions in India. If undiagnosed, these conditions can lead to anemia, fatigue, growth issues, and other complications. Early detection of abnormal hemoglobin variants is crucial for effective management and treatment.

The HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) test, also known as Hemoglobin Variant Analysis, is a precise diagnostic tool that identifies and measures different types of hemoglobin in the blood. Whether you are planning a family, managing a known hemoglobin disorder, or undergoing routine health screening, the HPLC test provides essential insights into your blood health.

If you are in Lucknow, Redcliffe Labs makes this process safe, convenient, and reliable. Our trained phlebotomists can collect blood samples from your home, ensuring accurate reports are delivered promptly.

What is the HPLC Test?

HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) is a sensitive and accurate test used to detect and measure different types of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to body tissues.

The HPLC test is particularly useful for:

• Identifying abnormal hemoglobin variants, such as those responsible for sickle cell disease or thalassemia.
• Quantifying fetal and adult hemoglobins is essential for diagnosing inherited blood disorders.
• Screening carriers of hemoglobin disorders provides valuable information for family planning.

Doctors often recommend HPLC testing when symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, pale skin, or a family history of hemoglobin disorders are present.

Purpose of the HPLC Test

The HPLC test serves multiple purposes:

1. Diagnosis of Hemoglobin Disorders: Hemoglobinopathies are genetic conditions caused by abnormal hemoglobin production. Common disorders include sickle cell disease, hemoglobin C disease, and thalassemia. HPLC testing identifies the specific hemoglobin variants, guiding proper diagnosis and management.

2. Carrier Screening: Individuals carrying one abnormal hemoglobin gene are usually asymptomatic but can pass the gene to their children. HPLC is essential for genetic counseling and family planning.

3. Monitoring Disease Progression: For patients with known hemoglobin disorders, HPLC helps track changes in hemoglobin composition over time, allowing doctors to adjust treatment plans.

4. Treatment Planning: The test provides information regarding blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, hydroxyurea, or bone marrow transplantation.

5. Prenatal Diagnosis: Couples with a family history of hemoglobin disorders can use HPLC testing to assess fetal risk through chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.

Who Should Take the HPLC Test?

• You may be advised to take the HPLC test if you:
•  Have symptoms of anemia, such as weakness, fatigue, or pale skin.
• Have a family history of hemoglobin disorders.
• Are planning a pregnancy or undergoing prenatal screening.
• Are a known carrier or have children with hemoglobinopathies.
• Require monitoring of treatment efficacy for diagnosed hemoglobin disorders.

Preparation for the HPLC Test

The HPLC test requires minimal preparation, making it convenient for home testing:

• Fasting: Not required; you can eat and drink normally.
• Medication: Inform your doctor about medications, supplements, or herbal remedies, as some may affect results.
• Hydration: Drink adequate water to ensure smooth blood collection.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing for easy access to your arm.

Considering the prep points, it is highly convenient to get an HPLC Test in Lucknow with home sample collection. 

HPLC Test Procedure

The HPLC test is simple, safe, and quick, designed for comfort. Here’s what to expect:

1. Appointment & Collection: After booking online, a trained phlebotomist will visit your home at the scheduled time.
2. Blood Sample Collection:

• The phlebotomist cleans the site with an antiseptic.
• A sterile needle is gently inserted into a vein to draw a small amount of blood.
• The blood is placed in labeled tubes for laboratory analysis.

3. Post-Collection Care:

• Gentle pressure is applied to the puncture site, and a bandage is placed.
• Minor discomfort or a brief pinch is normal.
• Sit and hydrate if you feel lightheaded.

4. Laboratory Analysis:

The sample is analyzed to identify normal and abnormal hemoglobins, including fetal hemoglobin, Hemoglobin A2, Hemoglobin S, and Hemoglobin C.

5. Results Delivery:

 Reports highlighting the percentage of each hemoglobin type are available within 48 hours. You can access the reports online through the Redcliffe Labs app.

Interpretation of HPLC test results

• Once the analysis is complete, the laboratory technicians will measure and analyze the specific compounds or biomarkers relevant to your test. 
• The increased hemoglobin level is associated with thalassemia, hemoglobin C disease, sickle cell disease, and hemoglobin S-C disease.
• The increased fetal hemoglobin (HbF) level in HPLC is associated with beta-thalassemia. 
• High HbA2 levels are associated with beta-thalassemia minor or trait.

Some common abnormal forms of hemoglobin that may be detected and measured are:

Hemoglobin S (Hb S, sickle cell disease)

Hemoglobin C (Hb C)

hemoglobin E (Hb E)

Some other common hemoglobins are:

Hemoglobin F (Hb F) 

Hemoglobin H (Hb H)

Hemoglobin D

Hemoglobin G

Hemoglobin J

Hemoglobin M

Hemoglobin Constant Spring

Hemoglobin Barts

What is the HPLC test normal range?

The normal range of Hemoglobin variant analysis tests may differ in children and adults. 

Normal Ranges for Hemoglobin Variants

Notes:

• Newborns naturally have higher HbF (fetal hemoglobin), gradually decreasing within the first year.
• Abnormal presence of HbS, HbC, or HbE indicates potential hemoglobin disorders.
• Values may slightly vary depending on the laboratory method, age, and health status.

What are the risks of the HPLC test?

Hemoglobin HPLC or electrophoresis blood tests are safe for diagnosing various hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias. However, like any medical procedure, they may carry minimal risks:

Pain or Discomfort: The blood test involves inserting a needle into a vein to collect a blood sample. You might experience minor pain, discomfort, or bruising. 

Fainting or Dizziness: Some people might feel faint or dizzy during or after the blood draw. 

Hematoma: Occasionally, a hematoma may develop at the puncture site. This can cause pain and swelling, but it is usually not severe.

Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, some people might have an allergic reaction to the antiseptic used to clean the skin or to the materials used during the blood collection. 

The Hemoglobin HPLC or Hemoglobin variant analysis test is safe and is performed routinely in clinical settings to diagnose and monitor hemoglobin disorders. Discuss your concerns or specific medical conditions that might affect the blood draw with your healthcare providers.

Why do Doctors recommend the HPLC Test?

Hemolytic anemia is frequently caused by abnormal hemoglobin types, resulting in signs and symptoms such as

• Weakness and exhaustion,
• Insufficient energy
• Jaundice is characterized by yellowing of the eyes and skin.
• Pale skin

Some severe hemoglobinopathies (for example, sickle cell disease) can cause significant signs and symptoms such as intense discomfort, shortness of breath, an enlarged spleen, and developmental issues in children. 

Doctors recommend the hemoglobin variant analysis test to: 

Diagnosis of Hemoglobinopathies: Hemoglobinopathies are genetic disorders that affect the structure or production of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in RBCs. Hb HPLC is essential for diagnosing sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and rare hemoglobin disorders.

Identification of Carriers: Hb HPLC can identify individuals with a single abnormal hemoglobin gene (heterozygotes). These people are known as carriers or "trait" individuals. While carriers typically do not experience symptoms, they can pass the abnormal gene on to their offspring. 

Assessment of Disease Severity: In people with hemoglobinopathies, the test provides information about the severity of the condition.

Guidance for Genetic Counseling: Hemoglobin variant analysis test results are vital for genetic counseling, especially when planning to start a family. Knowing their hemoglobin status helps them understand the risk of passing the condition to their children.

Factors affecting HPLC levels

• Several may lead to variations in the measured levels of analytes. 
• Medications and Supplements: Certain medications, including prescription drugs, may influence the blood test results. You must inform your healthcare provider about all your medications and supplements before the test.
• Physical Activity: Strenuous physical activity before a blood test can affect various markers, including enzymes and metabolites. 
• Dehydration: Dehydration can affect the concentration of certain substances in the blood, such as electrolytes and creatinine. 
• Stress and Anxiety: High stress levels or anxiety can influence cortisol levels and other stress-related hormones and affect the test results. 
• Menstrual Cycle: Hormone levels, such as estrogen and progesterone, can fluctuate during the menstrual cycle. 
• Pregnancy: Pregnancy can lead to hormonal changes that affect blood test results, particularly for hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or thyroid hormones.

HPLC test price @ Redcliffe labs

The HPLC test cost is INR 1049 at Redcliffe Labs. If your doctor has recommended the HPLC test, you must choose us. We provide the best diagnostic services at affordable prices. You need to book your appointment online, and our expert phlebotomistotomist will come to your place to collect the sample. With us, you do not need to wait in long queues. Moreover, we promise to provide accurate test reports within 30 hours. We have served millions of people in PAN India. Our labs are NABL accredited, and all our professionals are qualified, so you do not need to worry about testing quality. Just call us or book your appointment online.