Test Information:
Haptoglobin is a protein synthesized in the liver that binds with the globin α-chains of hemoglobin A, F, S, or C.Indications for haptoglobin quantitation include: anemia or other indicators of possible hemolysis; pregnancy-induced hypertension; transfusion reactions (assay of pre- and post-transfusion samples); assessment of acute-phase response; and evaluation of changes in the α2-region of serum protein electrophoresis. Decreased levels of haptoglobin are most frequently associated with conditions of increased intravascular hemolysis or hemoglobin turnover, such as hemolytic anemias, intravascular hemolytic transfusion reactions, and malaria. Extravascular hemolysis does not usually affect haptoglobin concentrations. Other conditions associated with decreased haptoglobin levels are congenital anhaptoglobinemia (ahaptoglobinemia) and severe liver diseases where protein synthesis is affected. Elevated levels of haptoglobin are most frequently associated with acute phase reactions (i.e., involving tissue infection, surgery, trauma, or necrosis).3 Other conditions associated with elevated haptoglobin levels are corticosteroid therapy and biliary obstruction.
Specimen Container:
Gold Top SST Tube (with clot activator) or Red Top Tube (Plain)
Specimen Type:
Serum
Required Volume:
2 mL
Patient Preparation:
No Patient Preparation
Notes:
N/A (Not Applicable)
Storage & Stability
(Before Processing)
- Storage: 2 to 8˚C
Stability: 8 months - Storage: 15 to 25˚C
Stability: 3 months
Transport Temperature:
Ref (2°C to 8°C)
Test Category:
Routine
Test Schedule:
Daily
Results Availability:
Within 4 hours