What is this test?
- This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to determine the presence of red blood cells with sickle shape. Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder with characteristic crescent-shaped red blood cells.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To diagnose sickle cell diseases
- To screen the newborn for sickle cell trait
- If you have a family history of sickle cell disease
- To screen for the presence of hemoglobin-S.
- What are the symptoms of Sickle cell disease?
Following are the symptoms of sickle cell disease:
- Anemia
- Paleness of the skin and eyes
- Shortness of breath
- Hand-foot syndrome
- Infections
- Vision problems
- Why sample shouldn’t be collected after a blood transfusion?
Avoid collection of sample after a recent blood transfusion because transfusion of normal RBCs will decrease the amount of hemoglobin-S present in the patient.
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. However, inform the doctor about your complete medical history before the test. Wear a short-sleeved shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- What might affect my test results?
- Polycythemia
- A recent blood transfusion
- Infants younger than 3 months of age.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness
Interpretation of test results:
Negative: A negative test result means that normal hemoglobin is present.
Positive: A positive test result means that you may have sickle cell disease or trait. Further testing is required to make the diagnosis of SCD or sickle trait.