Thalassemia Patients and Friends

Discussion Forums => Thalassemia Minor => Topic started by: Daddy123 on March 05, 2008, 02:43:28 AM

Title: Is it possible for a person with no Beta-Thal trait to have HbA2 >3.5 ??
Post by: Daddy123 on March 05, 2008, 02:43:28 AM

Dear fellow forumers, I have a question here.

I know that HbA2 >3.5 is a typical diagnosis of Thal carrier / minor. I am just wondering if it is possible for a individual with no Beta Thal trait ( as confirmed by intensive DNA testing ) to have a Hb A2 >3.5 amid slightly eg. 3.5 to 4.

Is there any other conditions that could possibly resulted in a slightly elevated HBA2 apart from being a Beta-Thal carrier ??

Title: Re: Is it possible for a person with no Beta-Thal trait to have HbA2 >3.5 ??
Post by: Andy Battaglia on March 05, 2008, 03:47:24 AM

There are other possible explanations for raised Hb A2.

http://www.rcpamanual.edu.au/sections/pathologytest.asp?s=33&i=262

Quote

HbA2 is usually raised in the ß thalassaemias, and in unstable haemoglobinopathies where the amino acid substitution is on the ß chain.

Acquired defects of HbA2 also exist. It may also be elevated in thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism) and in megaloblastic anaemias.

Megaloblastic anaemias would be obvious in a blood smear by their size.