What type of analysis can HPLC be used for in a sickle cell screen?

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a powerful analytical technique commonly utilized in various fields, including clinical laboratories. One of its primary applications is in the examination of hemoglobin types, making it highly relevant for sickle cell screening.

Sickle cell disease is caused by a specific mutation in the beta-globin gene, which results in the production of abnormal hemoglobin known as hemoglobin S (HbS). In sickle cell screening, HPLC can separate and quantify different hemoglobin species present in the blood. By analyzing the elution profiles of these hemoglobins, the presence of HbS can be confirmed, as well as the amounts of normal hemoglobin A (HbA), fetal hemoglobin (HbF), and any other variants. This differentiation is crucial for diagnosing sickle cell disease and carrier states.

In contrast, while HPLC can be utilized for various analyses, the context of sickle cell screening specifically pertains to the identification and quantification of hemoglobin types. Hence, this highlights the focused utility of HPLC in hematology and its importance in diagnosing hemoglobinopathies.