Purpose of the Report
Report Structure
Header
The top of the report includes your laboratory’s name, sample ID, date of testing and a
patient identifier (e.g., initials or a unique code) to protect confidentiality.
Patient CBC Values (Example)
| Parameter | Value | Reference Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hemoglobin | 11.2 g/dL | 12–16 g/dL |
| RBC count | 5.5 × 109/L | 4.0–5.2 × 109/L |
| MCV | 62.0 fL | 80–100 fL |
| MCH | 20.0 pg | 27–33 pg |
| RDW | 15.0 % | 11–15 % |
These sample values illustrate a profile consistent with beta‑thalassemia trait: low MCV and MCH with a high RBC count.
Calculated Indices
The report automatically calculates indices to aid interpretation. For example, the Mentzer index equals MCV divided by RBC count (62 / 5.5 ≈
11.3). Values below 13 usually suggest thalassemia trait, whereas values above 13 point toward iron‑deficiency anemia. Other indices such as
the Shine–Lal index may be included
Risk Category
The algorithm assigns one of three categories:
- Normal: All indices are within reference ranges. No further action required.
- Borderline / Intermediate: MCV or MCH are slightly below the cut‑off. Repeat the CBC and evaluate iron status before proceeding.
- Likely carrier: MCV < 80 fL and/or MCH < 27 pg with elevated RBC count. Recommend hemoglobin A2 quantification by HPLC or capillary electrophoresis and counsel the patient.
Interpretation and Recommendations
The report notes that low MCV and MCH values with normal or high RBC counts can indicate thalassemia trait.
However, other conditions such as iron deficiency or chronic disease can also lower MCV/MCH. If the sample
falls into the “Likely carrier” category, confirmatory testing and genetic counselling are advised.
Educational Notes
The report includes a brief explanation of thalassemia, its autosomal‑recessive inheritance and the fact that carriers are healthy but can pass the gene to their children. It explains that when both parents are carriers there is a 25 % chance of having an affected child. It also describes how national screening programmes have reduced the birth of affected children by over 95 % and mentions new treatments like gene therapy (Casgevy) for transfusion‑dependent patients
Next Steps and Contact
The final section provides clear instructions for clinicians: order confirmatory testing if indicated,
counsel the patient and discuss reproductive options. It also includes contact details for support. The
report reminds users that results are confidential and should be stored securely.