Variant Haemoglobins — A Guide to Identification is based on the premise that any single diagnostic technique offers only a very provisional identification of a variant haemoglobin. In routine diagnostic practice two techniques are needed as a minimum, with the results being interpreted in the light of the clinical details, blood count, blood film and ethnic origin. This book covers 150 normal and variant haemoglobins that have been studied and carefully documented. Variant Haemoglobins has four introductory chapters followed by an invaluable atlas. The introductory chapters cover • the genetics of haemoglobin synthesis • the principles of tests employed for identification • common haemoglobins of major clinical or diagnostic importance • thalassaemias and related conditions The atlas section comprises 170 full colour pages in which each variant haemoglobin or combination of haemoglobins is illustrated by cellulose acetate electrophoresis at alkaline pH, agarose gel electrophoresis at acid pH, isoelectric focusing and one or more HPLC traces. For ease of reference, the atlas pages are arranged according to the retention time of each haemoglobin on HPLC, this becoming increasingly the primary technique employed in haemoglobin identification. Bringing a mix of necessary scientific expertise and clinical knowledge, each author has more than 30 years experience in the diagnosis of variant haemoglobins. Providing otherwise unavailable information, this unique and practical guide • is illustrated with over 700 high quality colour digital images plus flow charts and line diagrams • covers common and important haemoglobin variants, in addition to many rarer ones • is an essential reference source for diagnosis in the haematology laboratory A remarkably useful book, Variant Haemoglobins will be valuable for haematopathologists, clinical and laboratory haematologists in practice and in training and all laboratory staff involved in haemoglobinopathy diagnosis.
