Haptoglobin testing is used to help detect hemolytic anemia and identify it from anemia due to other causes.  Haptoglobin is a protein produced by the liver.  The body uses haptoglobin to clear free hemoglobin from circulation.  Hemoglobin is normally found in red blood cells and only a minimal amount is free circulating in the blood.  The haptoglobin binds to the free hemoglobin forming a haptoglobin-hemoglobin complex.  The complex is usually cleared out of circulation rapidly for degradation and iron recycling.  The level of haptoglobin in your blood plays a key role in determining the type of anemia.

Symptoms of anemia include:

• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Jaundice
• Dark colored urine

Test results vary according to age, gender and health history along with other diseases or conditions.