Overview
Haptoglobin is an alpha-2 glycoprotein secreted mainly by the liver that binds plasma free haemoglobin following red cell lysis, and as such is reduced in the presence of haemolysis (particularly intravascular haemolysis).
Normal Range
- 36 - 195 mg/dL
Increased Haptoglobin
Haptoglobin is an acute phase reactant, and as such will be increased in the presence of infection, inflammation or malignancy.
Causes of Increased Haptoglobin
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Malignancy
- Trauma (including surgery)
Reduced Haptoglobin
Reduced haptoglobin may be caused by reduced production due to liver disease, or by increased consumption due to haemolysis.
Causes of Reduced Haptoglobin
- Haemolysis
- Chronic liver disease
- Congenital deficiency
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