An effective method for hemoglobin E detection: DEAE sepharose microcolumn.

Hemoglobin E (Hb E) is a variant hemoglobin that can lead to considerable morbidity when it occurs in a compound heterozygous state with beta-thalassemia. Therefore, its detection is important because it permits antenatal counseling. Hb E is prevalent in economically weaker regions of the world. Thus, its recognition is often hindered by the high costs of sophisticated Hb E-detection assays. We developed a simple visual test based on identifying Hb E in blood samples with DEAE Sepharose microcolumn chromatography. The diagnostic accuracy of our new Hb E microcolumn assay was 100% for sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. Furthermore, the Hb E microcolumn assay is rapid, reproducible, and economical; hence, it offers affordable screening for Hb E in less well-equipped laboratories.