Haemoglobin electrophoresis is a medical test used for the identification of different types of haemoglobin in the blood. The spelling of "haemoglobin" follows the British English convention where the "ae" combination represents the "eɪ" sound. Phonetic transcription of the word is: /hiːməˈɡloʊbɪn ɪlɛktroʊfəˈriːsɪs/. The "e" after "haemo" is silent, and the "o" in "globin" is pronounced as "oh". The "pho" in "electrophoresis" is pronounced as "fɔər", and the "e" after "electr" is also silent.
Haemoglobin electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate and identify different types of haemoglobin in a blood sample. Haemoglobin is the protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen and carries it throughout the body. The electrophoresis method involves subjecting the haemoglobin molecules to an electric field, which causes them to migrate at different rates based on their size, charge, and structure.
By using a special gel or plate with small channels, the haemoglobin molecules are separated according to their movement, forming distinct bands or zones on the gel. These bands represent various types of haemoglobin and their relative concentrations.
The importance of haemoglobin electrophoresis stems from its ability to identify different haemoglobin variants, such as those associated with genetic disorders like sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions as it can distinguish abnormal haemoglobins from normal ones.
Furthermore, haemoglobin electrophoresis can help detect carriers or individuals with silent mutations who are asymptomatic but can pass the faulty gene to their offspring. It can determine the exact type of abnormal haemoglobin and provide critical information about the severity and prognosis of the associated disorder.
Overall, haemoglobin electrophoresis is an essential diagnostic tool for identifying and characterizing various haemoglobinopathies, assisting in genetic counseling, and guiding appropriate treatment plans for affected individuals.
The word "haemoglobin electrophoresis" has its origins in two main components: "haemoglobin" and "electrophoresis".
1. Haemoglobin: The term "haemoglobin" originates from the combination of two Greek words - "haima" meaning "blood" and "globin" meaning "protein". Haemoglobin is the protein found in red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
2. Electrophoresis: The term "electrophoresis" is derived from the combination of two Greek words - "electro" meaning "electricity" and "phoresis" meaning "movement". Electrophoresis is a technique used to separate charged particles (such as proteins) in an electric field based on their size, charge, or other physical properties.