Inherited blood disorders are among the most common medical conditions that may remain undiagnosed for years, especially when symptoms are mild or nonspecific. This is where the importance of the Hemoglobin Electrophoresis (Hb Electrophoresis) test becomes clear. It is one of the most accurate and essential laboratory investigations used to diagnose hemoglobin disorders such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other forms of inherited anemia.
This test does not merely confirm the presence of anemia; it precisely identifies the type of hemoglobin and its percentage distribution, making it a cornerstone investigation in hematology—particularly for children, pregnant women, and individuals with a family history of hereditary anemia.
What Is Hemoglobin Electrophoresis?
Hemoglobin Electrophoresis is an advanced laboratory blood test used to separate and identify different types of hemoglobin present in red blood cells.
The test is based on the principle that various hemoglobin types carry different electrical charges and therefore migrate at different speeds when exposed to an electric field.
Importance of the Hb Electrophoresis Test
Hemoglobin electrophoresis helps to:
- Identify normal and abnormal hemoglobin variants
- Accurately measure the percentage of each hemoglobin type
- Diagnose inherited hemoglobin disorders
What Is Hemoglobin and Why Does It Vary?
Hemoglobin is a vital protein found inside red blood cells, responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to all body tissues.
There are several types of hemoglobin, the most important of which include:
- HbA: The normal adult hemoglobin
- HbA2: A normal minor fraction
- HbF: Fetal hemoglobin
- HbS / HbC / HbE: Abnormal hemoglobin variants associated with inherited disorders
Any abnormality in the structure or proportion of these hemoglobin types may lead to chronic anemia or serious complications.
Clinical Value of Hemoglobin Electrophoresis
Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a diagnostic test, not a routine screening test. It is used to:
- Diagnose different types of thalassemia
- Detect sickle cell disease
- Differentiate between inherited anemia and iron deficiency anemia
- Evaluate cases of unexplained anemia
- Screen individuals before marriage
- Monitor hereditary blood disorders in children
Why Does a Doctor Request Hemoglobin Electrophoresis?
Physicians may order Hb Electrophoresis in the following situations:
- Anemia of unknown cause
- Family history of inherited blood disorders
- Anemia not responding to iron supplementation
- Premarital screening
- Children with growth delay or persistent pallor
- During pregnancy to screen for thalassemia
- Suspicion of sickle cell disease
Hemoglobin Electrophoresis and Thalassemia
Hemoglobin electrophoresis is the gold standard test for diagnosing thalassemia. It typically shows:
- Elevated HbA2 in beta-thalassemia trait
- Increased HbF in certain thalassemia types
- Reduced or absent HbA in severe cases
This allows clear differentiation between:
- A healthy individual
- A carrier (trait)
- An affected patient
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Hemoglobin Electrophoresis and Sickle Cell Disease
In sickle cell disease, the test usually reveals:
- A high percentage of HbS
- Reduced or absent HbA
The test helps in:
- Confirming the diagnosis
- Differentiating between sickle cell trait and disease
- Assessing disease severity
How Is Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Performed?
The procedure is simple and includes:
- Drawing a venous blood sample
- Processing the sample using an electrophoresis analyzer
- Separating hemoglobin fractions
- Analyzing percentages and issuing a detailed report
Results are usually available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the laboratory.
Results can be received online via WhatsApp or as a printed report.
Book Your Test Today via WhatsApp
Does Hb Electrophoresis Require Fasting?
No. Hemoglobin electrophoresis does not require fasting and can be performed at any time of the day.
However, it is recommended to:
- Inform the laboratory about any recent blood transfusion
- Tell the physician about medications that may affect blood parameters
Interpreting Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Results
Results vary depending on hemoglobin type. Common reference values include:
| Hemoglobin Type | Normal Range |
| HbA | 95–98% |
| HbA2 | 2–3.5% |
| HbF | < 1% |
| HbS | Not normally present |
Any deviation from these values requires careful medical interpretation.
Is Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Accurate?
Yes. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is one of the most accurate laboratory tests for diagnosing hemoglobin disorders, especially when performed in an accredited laboratory using modern diagnostic equipment.
Cost of Hemoglobin Electrophoresis in Egypt
The price of the Hb Electrophoresis test varies depending on:
- The type of equipment used
- Laboratory expertise
- City or location
Therefore, the cost may differ from one facility to another.
Where Can Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Be Done in Egypt?
The test is available in major medical laboratories across Egypt, including Al Safa Lab, an accredited laboratory that uses advanced technology and provides clear, detailed reports with accurate interpretation.
Al Safa Lab also offers home sample collection and WhatsApp result delivery to ensure patient comfort and convenience.
Book Your Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Test Today
For accurate diagnosis and reliable results, you can book your test easily through one of the following options:
- WhatsApp Booking: +20 103 090 3637
- Email / Online Inquiries: contact@alsafalab.com
- Visit Al Safa Lab:
End of Mostafa El-Nahas Street, above Carrefour Market,
6 Mahdy Arafa Street, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
📌 Home sample collection is available
📄 Results delivered online via WhatsApp for your convenience
When Should Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Be Repeated?
Repeating the Hb Electrophoresis test is recommended in the following cases:
- After blood transfusion
- In newborns
- For periodic follow-up of inherited disorders
- Before marriage if there is a family history
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Hb electrophoresis blood test for?
An Hb electrophoresis blood test is used to identify and measure different types of hemoglobin in the blood to diagnose inherited hemoglobin disorders.
Is Hb electrophoresis for thalassemia?
Yes. Hb electrophoresis is a key diagnostic test for thalassemia, as it helps detect abnormal hemoglobin patterns and identify carriers and affected patients.
What is electrophoresis used to diagnose?
Electrophoresis is used to diagnose hemoglobin and protein disorders, including sickle cell disease, thalassemia, multiple myeloma, liver disease, and immune disorders.
What is the normal range for electrophoresis?
In adults, normal hemoglobin electrophoresis results show HbA at 95–98%, HbA2 at 2–3.5%, and HbF less than 1%.
