Hb Waikato [Alpha 127(H10)Lys -> Gln; Hba1: C.382a > C]: A Novel High Oxygen Affinity Variant

We report the identification of a novel, high oxygen affinity hemoglobin (Hb) variant [alpha 127(H10)Lys -> Gln; HBA1: c.382A>C]. The variant was detected in an adolescent male (proband) of Syrian descent by cation exchange high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), during Hb A(1c) analysis. A complete blood count (CBC) showed elevated red blood cells (RBCs) (6.08 x 10(12)/L), Hb (16.1 g/dL) and packed cell volume (PCV) (0.48 L/L). Capillary electrophoresis (CE) revealed the variant was more negatively charged and represented 18.2% of total Hb. Isopropanol stability was normal. Cyanosis in the subject prompted investigation of oxygen affinity, with a reduced p50 of 20.8 mm Hg and a left shifted oxygen dissociation curve demonstrating increased oxygen affinity. We propose the novel variant be named Hb Waikato, which reflects the Hospital Laboratory where the variant was discovered and region where the proband was born and herein describe characterization.