Serum transferrin concentrations and total iron-binding capacities in relation to different haemoglobin phenotypes.

Serum transferrin concentrations and total iron-binding capacities were measured in 184 adult male subjects using standard biochemical methods. The haemoglobin phenotypes of these subjects were also established. Decreases in both of these parameters were observed when HbAE, beta-thalassaemia trait (raised level of HbA2), and HbEE subjects were compared to HbA subjects. Though the decrease was slight in the cases of HbAE and beta-thalassaemia trait, HbEE subjects had significantly reduced values. Both the parameters were also significantly reduced when values from HbEE subjects were compared to those from HbAE and beta-thalassaemia trait. It is suggested that marginal liver damage is present in subjects with homozygous HbE, leading to a reduction in transferrin production.