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Haptoglobin

Category Haematology
Test background

Haptoglobins bind free haemoglobin in plasma to form a complex which is rapidly eliminated from the bloodstream. Levels are decreased in cases of haemolysis, hepatocellular disease and congenital ahaptoglobinaemia. Haptoglobin is an acute phase protein, increased levels may be found in cases of infection, malignancy, tissue damage, Hodgkin's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, biliary obstruction and with steroid therapy. A normal haptoglobin level does not exclude the possibility of increased haemolysis.

Clinical Indications

Reduced haptoglobins can be a feature of haemolysis, particularly intravascular.

Reference range

 

Adult Males: 0.5 – 2.0 g/L
Adult Females: 0.4 – 1.6 g/L
Children <1 yr may have lower concentrations
Sample & container required Serum (red top)
Sample volume 0.5 mL
Turnaround time Up to 1 week. Please contact the laboratory regarding any samples that require urgent analysis.
Notes

This test is performed by the Clinical Biochemistry department. Please contact 020331 35901 for enquiries relating to sample analysis (or email [email protected]). For clinical interpretation or any other enquiries please contact the Haematology registrar on bleep 9071 (Haematology secretary: 020 331 58211, Special Haematology Laboratory 020 331 21084).