[HbA2 evaluation: comparison between microchromatography on a DEAE cellulose column and conventional cellulose acetate electrophoresis].

Even if different methods were employed in Hb A2 level detection, so far the borderline values between normal and pathological "range" depend on the different laboratories and techniques. The Authors report here an investigation carried out on Hb A2 levels using two different methods: the chromatographic technique by DEAE cellulose column, and the cellulose acetate electrophoresis. The investigation regards 46 normal and 50 beta-thalassemia obligate carrier samples. The results demonstrate that chromatographic technique provides a lowest misclassification rate with a greater reliability. Therefore the use of the microchromatographic procedure for beta-thalassemia screening is recommended.