Sickling, Screening Test

Types of Sickle Cell Screening

• Solubility Test ("Sickle Prep"): A rapid, cost-effective test used to identify the presence of hemoglobin S, often used in screenings.
• Hemoglobin Electrophoresis: A highly accurate diagnostic test that separates different types of hemoglobin to determine if you have sickle cell disease or trait.
• Genetic Testing: Evaluates DNA to confirm inheritance of the sickle cell gene.
• Newborn Screening: Routine blood tests done shortly after birth to detect sickle cell disease early.
• Prenatal Screening: Tests such as amniocentesis (collecting fluid from the womb) can test for sickle cell in a fetus.

What Results Mean

• Positive Screening: Indicates the presence of hemoglobin S. A positive solubility test requires follow-up testing (electrophoresis) to distinguish between sickle cell disease (HbSS) and sickle cell trait (carriers).
• Sickle Cell Trait (SCT): An individual has one gene for HbS and one normal gene, usually causing no health issues.
• Sickle Cell Disease (SCD): An individual has two abnormal genes, causing serious health conditions.

When to Test

• As part of routine newborn screening.
• Pre-marital or prenatal screening for genetic counseling.
• If you have symptoms like unexplained pain, fatigue, or swelling in hands/feet.
• If you are of African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, or Mediterranean descent, as the trait is more common in these populations.