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Is my friend's beta thalassemia screening test normal?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My cousin of 30 years old got tested for the beta thalassemia screening test. He got the result as hemoglobin A2 is 2.8 %, hemoglobin F is 0.2 %, and hemoglobin C, D, and S are not detected. Is this normal, or have there been any complications?

Please guide.
Answered by Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prakash H. M. is an experienced Pathologist with expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, histopathology, and cytology. He plays a crucial role in accurate disease diagnosis through laboratory testing and microscopic analysis. With a strong foundation in medical diagnostics, Dr. Prakash ensures reliable and timely reports that support effective treatment decisions. His precision and commitment to quality make him a trusted expert in the field of pathology.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

  1. The beta-thalassemia screening test appears to be normal.
  2. HbA2 levels (hemoglobin A2) are normally between 2 to 3.3% and HbF levels (fetal hemoglobin) are 0.1 to 1.2% for this age. Both are normal.
  3. The other hemoglobin type is HbA (adult hemoglobin), which constitutes the remaining and is in the normal range.
  4. In thalassemia (an abnormal form of hemoglobin), HbF is predominantly elevated and up to more than 20 to 30%. So, there is nothing to worry about.
  5. Hemoglobin C, D, and S are different types of diseases and are not detected. Hence, do not worry.
  6. No further tests are necessary. If he has microcytic hypochromic anemia, it is probably iron deficiency, and iron supplements should help.
Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At May 13, 2016
Reviewed At December 5, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prakash H. M. is an experienced Pathologist with expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, histopathology, and cytology. He plays a crucial role in accurate disease diagnosis through laboratory testing and microscopic analysis. With a strong foundation in medical diagnostics, Dr. Prakash ensures reliable and timely reports that support effective treatment decisions. His precision and commitment to quality make him a trusted expert in the field of pathology.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

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Companion

Beta Thalassemia Screening Companion

How it works

This section explains the components of a beta thalassemia screening test and what your results mean.

1

Thalassemia
Basics

2

Hemoglobin
A2 Levels

3

Fetal
Hemoglobin

4

Adult
Hemoglobin

5

Thalassemia
Markers

6

Other
Variants

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.
Dr. Prakash. H. M.
Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Hematology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prakash H. M. is an experienced Pathologist with expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, histopathology, and cytology. He plays a crucial role in accurate disease diagnosis through laboratory testing and microscopic analysis. With a strong foundation in medical diagnostics, Dr. Prakash ensures reliable and timely reports that support effective treatment decisions. His precision and commitment to quality make him a trusted expert in the field of pathology.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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