Hemoglobinopatías S en la Argentina. / [S hemoglobinopathies in Argentina]

ABSTRACT

Hb S is among the most prevalent abnormal hemoglobins, its distribution being related to areas where malaria is or was once endemic. In order to establish the characteristics of sickle cell hemoglobinopathies in Argentina, all cases diagnosed in a 30-year period in the Hematology Unit of R. Gutiérrez Childrens Hospital were revised. Hb S diagnoses were based minimally on a positive sickling test; in most cases, RBC and reticulocyte counts, Hb concentration, and PCV were also performed, and red cell indices were obtained according to standardized procedures. Concentrations of Hb A2 and Hb S were calculated by elution of cellulose acetate strips following electrophoresis, and Hb F was measured by alkali denaturation. Of the 925 hemoglobinopathies diagnosed, Hb S was found in 116 (12.5