An improved method for detection of red cell hemoglobin H inclusions.

Abstract

Supravital staining of red blood cells with brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) is used to detect hemoglobin H (Hb H). This simple test is useful in the diagnosis of alpha thalassemia trait; however, the search for Hb H containing cells in often very tedious. A technique is described that enriches BCB preparations for Hb H containing cells about ten times over conventional methods. In a study of 20 patients, the new method detected alpha thalassemia in about twice as many patients as the old method.