2 x EDTA required, 1 x EDTA for Haem the 2nd EDTA is for Molecular Haem
Note any familial history of thalassaemia if known. Please write this information clearly on the request form, including name of partner (antenatal only). For thalassaemia screen - the specimen must be pre-transfusion.
GENERAL NOTES
If required urgently please contact haematology. Hb electrophoresis should not be requested when iron deficient, as defined by a low s-ferritin or a "normal" s-ferritin in the presence of an acute/chronic illness, is present, as "false normal" Hb electrophoresis results may be obtained. The test is also of limited value in babies up to ~9 months of age, as HbF may still make up a significant proportion of the total amount of haemoglobin in these patients. A microcytic, hypochromic red cell picture accompanied by a high or high-normal red cell count may be an indication for a Hb electrophoresis test. - See also "Kleihauer test". FBC and HbEPP will be performed.