Newborn Screening for Metabolic and Sickle Cell Disorders Program
Hemoglobin Variant Carriers (Traits)
Brief Description
Individuals with one abnormal hemoglobin chain and one normal hemoglobin chain (heterozygotes) are carriers. They are often referred to as having a "trait". Most hemoglobin carriers have few or no clinical symptoms.
Prevalence
(GA) About 3 to 4% of infants born in Georgia are carriers for hemoglobin S, C, E or other.
Analyte/Lab Method
Hemoglobin fractions by isoelectric focusing (IEF), HPLC, and Citrate Agar electrophoresis
Abnormal Result
FAS, FAC, FAE, FA variant
Timing Effect
none
Causes of False Positives/Negatives
Transfusion and biologic variation in beta globin expression at birth.
Treatment
none needed
Symptoms
none
Comments
Parents and other family members may benefit from hemoglobin electrophoresis, education, and counseling.
Follow-up Program
Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia
(404) 755-1641 or 1-800-326-5287 (toll free)
Additional Resources
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