RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HB AND HBA2 CONCENTRATIONS IN BETA-THALASSEMIA TRAIT AND EFFECT OF IRON-DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Abstract

The relationship of HbA2 to total Hb was measured in 204 cases of .beta.-thalassemia (.beta.-th-t) where the total Hb varied from 3.6-16 g/100 ml. The variation of total Hb in the study population was due, as far as could be defined, only to .beta.-th-t and a superimposed Fe deficiency anemia (IDA). Superimposed IDA decreases HbA2 proportionately more than it does total Hb (P < 0.001). A previously undescribed relationship between HbA2 and total Hb was demonstrated and probably conformed a 2nd degree parabola.