Fetal hemoglobin acid elution test

HbF is more alkaline and acid resistant than normal hemoglobin (HbA). Therefore, after blood tablets are eluted with acid, HbF-containing red blood cells are not discolored due to acid resistance and can be stained red by eosin. Red blood cells containing HbA or only a small amount of HbF are eluted by the acid, leaving only a shadow of the red blood cell membrane.

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