Autofluorescent Hgb (2)

Walter Sharp (102675.320@CompuServe.COM)
15 Aug 96 00:29:59 EDT

Dear All,
Some time ago I described a case of homozygous Hgb E whose red cells
autofluoresced under 488 laser light.
It seems now that this phenomenon also occurs with de-novo Beta Thalassaemias,
I've had three cases in the past week or so.
There is known to be a degree of Hgb oxidation in Thals so do any of you with
knowledge of oxidation products think this could be the cause ?
We are now suspecting that the so called Homozygous E is actually a double
heterozygote E/Beta Thal - but that's yet to be proved on his next visit.

Any info or comments welcome.

Wal Sharp
SQU
Oman