Haptoglobin

Description: 
The measurement of haptoglobin is useful in the detection and evaluation of haemolytic anemia. It may also be helpful in distinguishing anemia due to other causes.

Clinical details: 
Haptogloblin is a complex group of allo-typically related glycoproteins. Three common phenotypes have been described. The main function of the haptoglobulins is conservation of iron by the binding of haemoglobin liberated on haemolysis. Reduced concentrations are seen in any clinical situations where there is intravascular haemolysis. Haptoglobin is an acute phase protein and concentrations are increased in any inflammatory condition, following trauma and neoplasia.
Reference range: 

See Chemistry Reference Ranges Document at Automated Chemistry Laboratory at Guy's and St Thomas'

Units: 
g/L
Sample type and Volume required: 
Serum preferred though lithium heparin and EDTA- plasma are also acceptable. Visibly haemolysed samples are not acceptable. Grossly lipaemic/icteric samples are not suitable.
Minimum sample volume 250 uL.
Turnaround time: 
1 day
Storage and transport: 
Cell-free serum/plasma is stable for 3 months at 15-25 °C, 8 months at 2-8 °C.
Contacts:
Blood Sciences Department-Guy's And St Thomas' Hospital
St Thomas' Hospital
North Wing - 5th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
Contact: 020 7188 9247

Guy's Hospital
Southwark Wing - 4th Floor
Great Maze Pond
London SE1 9RT
Contact: 020 7188 4781
Automated Chemistry Laboratory at Guy's and St Thomas' Clinical Advisory Service
Monday – Friday, 09:00-17:00 h: 07738897061
Out of hours, weekends & bank holidays: find details on Rotawatch on Trust intranet GTi, or contact via GSTT switchboard.
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.

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Last updated: 29/12/2023