Haptoglobin Blood Test
The haptoglobin blood test measures the amount of protein called haptoglobin in your blood.
Description
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.