A novel test tube method of screening for hemoglobin E

Introduction: Hemoglobin (Hb) E is a β‐structural variant common worldwide. This Hb disorder can form a compound heterozygous state with the β‐thalassemia gene, leading to life‐threatening hereditary hemolytic anemia, HbE/β‐thalassemia. Screening of HbE has proven to be a challenging practice in prevention and control of the HbE/β‐thalassemia. Methods: A novel test tube method for HbE screening using diethyl aminoethyl (DEAE)‐cellulose resin was described. With the developed system, HbE/A₂ did not bind to the resin and remained dissolved in the supernatant, whereas other Hbs completely bound to the resin. The red color of the supernatant observed in the test tube indicated the presence of HbE. Colorless or markedly pale color of the supernatant indicates the absence of HbE. Results: Accuracy and efficiency of the established method in detecting HbE was comparable with the standard cellulose acetate electrophoresis method. The developed method is cheap and simple with no requirement of sophisticated equipment. The reagent could be stored at 4 °C for up to 5 months. Hemolysate samples aged up to 5 months were still suitable for this test. Conclusion: The described novel test tube method could be an alternative method of mass population screening for HbE, particularly in small health care facilities.