Laboratory: Genomics
Test Name:
BETA THALASSEMIA - HBB GENE - (B)
Test Code: MD
Clinical Information:
Hemoglobinopathy investigation is required prior or concurrently with molecular diagnostic testing.  Testing is indicated for patients of reproductive age (15-45 years of age) that are identified on hemoglobinopathy investigations as β-thal trait AND partner has abnormal findings on hemoglobinopathy investigations.  Couple-based testing is recommended.  Testing generally restricted to medical geneticists and hematologists.  For more information, see
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1426/ and
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1377/
Collection Devices:
Specimen Required:


Whole Blood: 8.0 mL
Pediatric Whole Blood: 3.0 mL

Keep specimen at room temperature.  Pediatric volume for infants only.  For prenatal diagnosis, contact laboratory for prior approval and to obtain specimen requirements.
Referral:
Requisition:
Reference Values:
An interpretive report from the referral laboratory will be forwarded to the physician.
Availability:
Extracted DNA is forwarded to an out-of-province laboratory for testing, if approved. Turnaround time is estimated to be 8 to 10 weeks. Expedited turnaround time, where medically indicated, available upon request.
See Also:
More Information:
Do NOT centrifuge.  Ship blood samples at room temperature to Health Sciences Centre - MS5.  Extracted DNA will be forwarded for testing to a reference laboratory.  Specimen sent for Molecular tests are not to be used for other tests (ie. CBC).