Haptoglobin
Also known as: HAPTO
Use
The Haptoglobin test is used to detect and assess hemolysis, which can occur in conditions such as hemolytic anemias or paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). The measurement of haptoglobin levels is critical as it binds free hemoglobin released from erythrocytes, thereby preventing loss of iron through the kidneys and protecting the kidneys from damage by hemoglobin.
Special Instructions
Fasting specimen is preferred for more accurate results. It is important to ensure specimens are properly collected in a plasma separator tube or a serum separator tube. Green (lithium heparin) tubes and pink (K2EDTA) tubes are also acceptable. Specimens must be allowed to clot completely at room temperature, and serum or plasma should be separated from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection.
Limitations
The test may not accurately reflect hemolysis in all cases, particularly if the serum haptoglobin levels are affected by factors such as liver dysfunction or congenital deficiency. Grossly hemolyzed samples may yield unreliable results and are considered unacceptable. Haptoglobin levels can also be influenced by acute phase reactions from various conditions, leading to potential misinterpretation.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Quantitative Immunoturbidimetry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 4542-7
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Allow specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum or plasma from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Patient Preparation
Fasting specimen preferred.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated storage is required after specimen preparation.
Causes for Rejection
Grossly hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 months |
| Refrigerated | 8 months |
| Frozen | 3 months |