Hemoglobin (cont.)

What is thalassemia?

Thalassemia refers to a group of hereditary conditions with quantitative hemoglobin deficiency. The body's failure to make globulin molecules will lead to compensatory mechanism to make other less compatible globulin molecules. The different types of thalassemia are defined based on what type of globulin molecule is deficient. The severity of these conditions depends on the type of deficient globulin chain, the number of deficient globulins, and the severity of the underproduction. Mild disease may only present as mild anemia, whereas, severe deficiency may not be compatible with life.

What is the hemoglobin A1c test?

Hemoglobin A1c or glycosylated hemoglobin is a rough indication of blood sugar control in people with diabetes mellitus over the preceding three months. As more glucose (blood sugar) circulates in the blood on a daily basis, more hemoglobin molecules are bound to glucose. Normal hemoglobin A1c level ranges between 4% to 5.9%. As this number reaches 6% or greater, it signifies poorer diabetes control.

Hemoglobin A1c of 6% roughly correlates with average blood sugar level of 135 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliters) over the previous three months. Each 1% increase in hemoglobin A1c above 6% represents average blood sugar of approximately 35 mg/dL over 135 mg/dL. For example, hemoglobin A1c measurement of 7% corresponds to average blood sugar level 170 mg/dL in the last three months.

REFERENCE:

Davis, Charles Patrick, and Melissa Conrad Stöppler. "Hemoglobin Levels." eMedicineHealth. 4 Nov. 2011. <http://www.emedicinehealth.com/hemoglobin_levels/article_em.htm>.

Last Editorial Review: 4/30/2012

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/hemoglobin/article.htm