Screening of Various Abnormal Hemoglobins in Antenatal Women-A Prospective Study

Background: Hemoglobinopathies including β-thalassemia, sickle cell disease and other abnormal hemoglobin variants are significant causes of maternal anemia and adverse fetal outcomes in India. Early detection through antenatal screening allows for timely genetic counseling and prenatal management.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence and spectrum of abnormal hemoglobins in antenatal women and to assess the severity of anemia in affected individuals.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted on antenatal women attending OPD at a tertiary care hospital. Blood samples were screened for abnormal hemoglobins using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Hemoglobin levels were measured, and anemia was classified as mild (10–13 g/dL), moderate (7–10 g/dL), or severe (<7 g/dL).

Results: Among 159 women diagnosed with abnormal hemoglobins:

• β-thalassemia trait was most common (87 cases, 54.73%), followed by sickle cell trait (54 cases, 33.97%).
• Less frequent variants included Hb D Punjab (8, 5.03%), Hb E heterozygous (4, 2.52%), HPFH (3, 1.89%), and rare variants Hb Q India, Hb J India, Hb D Iran/Deer Lodge (1 case each, 0.62%).

Conclusion: β-thalassemia and sickle cell traits are the most prevalent hemoglobinopathies in antenatal women with a significant proportion presenting with moderate to severe anemia. Routine antenatal screening using HPLC is recommended to identify carriers, provide genetic counseling and guide prenatal management, reducing the risk of severe hemoglobinopathies in offspring