MCV-MCH Value and One Tube Osmotic Fragility Test (OTOFT) Method for Thalassemia Trait Detection in Pregnancies

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of carrier thalassemia on pregnant women population who visit to antenatal clinic Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia. Design study was cross sectional that 219 blood samples have collected in tubes containing EDTA anticoagulant. Sample examined for routine blood analysis and OTOFT method. If OTOFT method result was positive that confirm with alkaline Hemoglobin electrophoresis. 17 (7.76%) suspected carrier thalassemia were positive OTOFT method. Samples with OTOFT method positive have average values of Hemoglobin, MCV, and MCH were 10.88±1.61 g/dL, 82.64±8.66 fL, and 26.42±3.99 pg, that less than negative OTOFT method group. Average concentration of HbA2 Alkaline electrophoresis was 5.4%, more than common normal value could be concluded suspected carrier β thalassemia. Population of suspected carrier thalassemia was 7.76%. Combination MCV, MCH value and OTOFT method can use as simple screening tool for detection thalassemia trait in primary level