Laboratory Tests
The goals with sickle cell tests are to identify sickle cell anemia as soon as possible, to identify patients with sickle cell trait, and to identify, evaluate, and treat complications as they arise. Newborn screening for sickle cell is now performed routinely throughout the U.S. This testing can identify the specific types of hemoglobin present. Sickle cell tests and other tests that may be performed include:
- Hb solubility test and sodium metabisulfite test: to screen for sickle cell anemia
- Hemoglobinopathy (Hb) evaluation. Hb electrophoresis, Hb isoelectric focusing or HPLC: this test measures the type and relative amounts of hemoglobin present in the red blood cells.
- DNA analysis: This test is used to investigate alterations and mutations in the genes that produce hemoglobin components.
- CBC (complete blood count)
- Blood smear (also called peripheral smear and manual differential)
- Iron studies
