Question

The hemoglobin electrophoresis pattern for patient #2 shows an increase in Hb F and a decrease in both Hb A and Hb A2. These results correlate best with which of these thalassemias?

Answer 1

The hemoglobin electrophoresis pattern for patient #2, showing increased Hb F and decreased Hb A and Hb A2, is most indicative of β-thalassemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The hemoglobin electrophoresis pattern of patient #2, which shows an increase in Hb F and a decrease in both Hb A and Hb A2, is most consistent with β-thalassemia. β-thalassemia is characterized by reduced synthesis of the β-chain of globin, leading to an excess of α and γ chains. This results in elevated levels of Hb F and a decrease in Hb A and Hb A2.