Haptoglobin
| Category | Haematology | ||||||
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| 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. |
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| Clinical Indications |
Reduced haptoglobins can be a feature of haemolysis, particularly intravascular. |
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| Reference range |
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| 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). |