A Service of the Hamilton Regional Laboratory
Laboratory Test Information
Committed to Quality
The HRLMP is committed to providing high quality laboratory results for our clients.
As one of the largest integrated laboratory medicine programs in Canada we strive to produce the right results the first time on every sample we receive.
Test Name:
Alpha Thalassemia
Alternate Name(s): H disease, Hb Barts, Constant Spring, alphahydrops, HBA1, HBA2, hemoglobinopathy
Requisition Form: Download requisition form for: R_FINAL_Hemoglobinopathy_Feb2024.pdf
Specimen Requirement: One of the following specimen types is required:
Blood: 5 mL Lavender EDTA Tube
Amniotic Fluid: 10-15 mL, Back-Up Culture Required
Cleaned CVS (Chorionic Villi): 5-15mg, Back-Up Culture Required
Cultured cells, confluent: 1x T25 flask
DNA: Minimum 6ug
Specimen Handling Instructions:
CBC, Hemoglobin electrophoresis and ferritin results must also be submitted with sample.

Transport at room temperature.
Blood Samples can be stored in the fridge (4°C) for up to one week before shipping.
All other sample types need to be shipped overnight.
JHCC Site, Room H2-19A, (905) 521-2100 ext. 76944.
For any inquiries, please contact moleculargenetics@hhsc.ca
Turnaround Time: 6 weeks
Interpretive Comments:
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Turnaround Times:
Fetal Samples: 1-2 weeks
Prenatal Samples: 2-4 weeks
Additional Information: Samples must be sent from within Canada.

For any inquiries, please contact moleculargenetics@hhsc.ca.
Method of Analysis: Targeted PCR and Direct Sequence Analysis
Test was Last Updated: 3/17/2025
Testing Laboratory: Clinical Genetics
Testing Site: JHCC