Haptoglobin blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Haptoglobin is a protein made by the liver. When red blood cells break down inside blood vessels, they release haemoglobin, and haptoglobin binds to it so it can be cleared safely by the liver and spleen. If red cells are being destroyed faster than usual, a process called haemolysis, haptoglobin is used up and its level falls.

Haptoglobin is also an acute phase protein, meaning the liver makes more of it during inflammation or infection. This dual role means it is usually read alongside a full blood count, bilirubin and markers of inflammation to understand what is going on.

The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result with you, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have been told you have anaemia and the cause is not yet clear.
• A previous test showed raised bilirubin or LDH and your practitioner wants to look at red cell breakdown.
• You have a known inherited red cell condition and are being monitored.
• You are exploring inflammation markers in more depth.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your haptoglobin with the laboratory reference range. A low level can point to red blood cells breaking down too quickly, which can happen with some inherited conditions, autoimmune processes, certain medicines and mechanical heart valves. Low levels can also occur with significant liver disease, as the liver makes less, and some people naturally have very low levels.

A raised haptoglobin usually reflects inflammation, infection or tissue injury. Because inflammation and red cell breakdown push the level in opposite directions, a normal value does not always exclude haemolysis. Any result outside the range is a prompt for discussion with your practitioner, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed for haptoglobin. Tell us about recent infections, any long-term inflammatory condition and the medicines you take, including steroids and oestrogen-containing medicines such as the combined pill or HRT, which can affect the level. Prescribed medicines should be continued as normal unless your doctor advises a change.

A Full Blood Count is the usual first step in looking at anaemia, and haptoglobin is included in Omnia Signature. You can also browse every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a haptoglobin test in Chiswick?

A haptoglobin blood test at Omnia Lifestyle costs £99. The price covers your sample in Chiswick, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

What does a low haptoglobin mean?

It often suggests that red blood cells are breaking down faster than normal, but liver disease and natural variation can also lower it. Your practitioner will read it with your blood count and bilirubin.

Why is haptoglobin linked to inflammation?

The liver produces more haptoglobin when there is inflammation or infection, so it can rise in those situations even if red cells are healthy.

Can haptoglobin diagnose haemolytic anaemia?

Not on its own. It is one of several tests used together, and a diagnosis is made by a doctor after a full assessment.