When a diagnosis of thalassemia is suspected, which test should always be done?

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Hemoglobin electrophoresis is the gold standard test for diagnosing thalassemia. It can distinguish between alpha and beta thalassemia, and also identify carriers of the disease. Bone marrow aspiration may be done in some cases to confirm the diagnosis, but it is not always necessary. Iron studies and vitamin assays are not specific to thalassemia and may not provide a definitive diagnosis.

When a Diagnosis of Thalassemia Is Suspected, Which Test Should