Hematology BOC 7th Ed. Practice Exam

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Which electrophoresis pattern shown in the figure is consistent with sick cell trait?

pattern a

Electrophoresis separates hemoglobins by their charge, so different Hb types appear as distinct bands. In sickle cell trait, an individual has one normal beta-globin gene (producing Hb A) and one sickle gene (producing Hb S). The result is two bands: Hb A and Hb S, with Hb A typically the more prominent band. This pattern shows the presence of both normal and sickle hemoglobin, which is what defines the trait. If a pattern showed only Hb S, that would suggest sickle cell disease (HbSS), while a pattern showing only Hb A would be normal (HbAA). Therefore, the pattern that displays both Hb A and Hb S bands is consistent with sickle cell trait. Minor bands from Hb F or Hb A2 can appear in various individuals, but the key is the coexistence of Hb A and Hb S.

pattern b

pattern c

pattern d