Haptoglobin

At IntroLab, a well-known biochemical laboratory in Belgrade, you can undergo a haptoglobin analysis to check its concentration in serum or plasma. Haptoglobin is an important protein that binds free hemoglobin, preventing the loss of iron from the body and kidney damage. Haptoglobin analysis is particularly useful for diagnosing hemolytic anemia, where a decreased concentration of haptoglobin is observed in patients with reduced erythrocyte lifespan.

More about the parameter

Haptoglobin is a complex glycoprotein produced in the liver and consists of two pairs of polypeptide chains, α and β. These chains are connected by disulfide bonds, forming an α2β2 structure. The α polypeptide can be in two forms, α1 and α2. By combining α1 and α2 chains with the β chain, three phenotypes of haptoglobin are formed: HAP 1-1 (α1²β2), HAP 2-1 (α1α2β2), and HAP 2-2 (α2²β2).

Haptoglobin plays a key role in binding free hemoglobin in the plasma. Each haptoglobin molecule can bind two hemoglobin molecules, forming a stable complex. This complex, known as Hp-Hgb, is removed from the plasma by cells of the reticuloendothelial system (RES), which catabolize it into amino acids and iron. In this way, haptoglobin prevents the excretion of hemoglobin through urine and the loss of iron.

Haptoglobin analysis – Indications

Indications for haptoglobin analysis include:

• Suspicion of hemolytic anemia: The analysis is used for the diagnosis and monitoring of hemolytic anemias, which are characterized by a shortened lifespan of erythrocytes. Therefore, it is considered one of the key blood anemia analyses.
• Liver function assessment: Changes in haptoglobin concentration can be an indicator of liver damage.
• Monitoring therapy: The analysis is used to monitor the effectiveness of therapy and the body’s response to treatments that affect erythrocytes.

Consult with a specialist or visit IntroLab laboratory in Belgrade to determine the level of haptoglobin. We will perform blood drawing for analysis so you can receive accurate information about your health condition.