Home›Sickling Test

Content created by

Written by

BDS, MDS - Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology

Reviewed by

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Want to know more?
Read our Editorial Policy

Sickling Test

₹169~~₹299~~ 43% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Sickling Test

What is Sickling Test?

The Sickling Test is a blood test used to identify both sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait caused by hemoglobin S (abnormal form of hemoglobin). The test is recommended when individuals exhibit symptoms like anemia, pain episodes, or a family history of sickle cell disease. It is also essential for newborn screening and pre-marital testing in high-risk populations.

Early detection through the Sickling Test is crucial for managing and preventing complications associated with sickle cell disease, such as infections, stroke, and organ damage. By identifying individuals with sickle cell trait or disease, doctors can implement appropriate monitoring and treatment strategies.

What is Sickling Test used for?

The Sickling Test is done:

To diagnose sickle cell anemia.
To identify whether a person carries the sickle cell trait.
To investigate the causes of unexplained anemia or pain episodes.
To screen newborns for sickle cell disease.
As a part of pre-martial testing to screen for sickle cell disease in high-risk population.
To monitor individuals with known sickle cell disease to evaluate the progression of the condition and manage treatment.

What does Sickling Test measure?

The Sickling Test detects the presence of abnormal hemoglobin (hemoglobin S) in red blood cells. It helps determine if a person has sickle cell disease or is a carrier of the sickle cell trait.

A positive test result confirms the presence of abnormal hemoglobin S in the blood, indicating the individual has sickle cell anemia. While a positive result for the sickle cell trait means the individual carries sickle cell gene but does not have the disease. They can pass the trait on to their children. A negative result indicates the absence of the sickle cell trait or disease, but it doesn't necessarily exclude all hemoglobinopathies, requiring further tests for a comprehensive diagnosis.

Determining whether a person has the sickle cell trait is essential for developing effective treatment and management plans. This may involve pain management, blood transfusions, and preventive measures to reduce the risk of complications associated with sickle cell disease.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sickling Test

Frequently Asked Questions about Sickling Test

Q. What is the Sickling Test?

The Sickling Test is a blood test that detects the presence of sickle-shaped red blood cells or identifies the genetic trait for sickle cell disease. It helps diagnose sickle cell anemia.

Q. Why is the Sickling Test done?

This test is performed to diagnose sickle cell anemia, determine if someone carries the sickle cell trait, or screen newborns for the disease. It can also help assess the risk of passing the condition to future children, especially in high-risk populations.

Q. Who should get tested for sickle cell disease?

The test is recommended for individuals with a family history of sickle cell disease or those who show symptoms like unexplained episodes of pain due to blocked blood flow, fatigue, or anemia.

Q. How is the Sickling Test performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take blood samples from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. What does a positive result mean in the Sickling Test?

A positive result indicates the presence of sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait.

Q. Is fasting required before the Sickling Test?

No, fasting is not required for the Sickling Test. You can schedule it at your convenience without avoiding food or water beforehand.

Q. What causes sickle cell disease?

Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that makes hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. Individuals with two copies of the sickle cell gene (one from each parent) have sickle cell anemia.

Q. What are the symptoms of sickle cell disease?

Symptoms can vary but often include chronic pain episodes (called sickle cell crises), fatigue, shortness of breath, frequent infections, delayed growth in children, and swelling in the hands and feet. It may also cause complications like organ damage, stroke, and anemia.

Q. Is sickle cell disease curable?

No, there is no cure for sickle cell disease. However, various treatment options can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Q. Can individuals with sickle cell disease have children?

Yes, people with sickle cell disease can have children. However, if both parents have sickle cell disease or are carriers, there is a risk of passing the disease on to their children. Genetic counseling is recommended for family planning.

Q. What is sickle cell trait?

Sickle cell trait means a person carries one copy of the sickle cell gene but does not have the disease. Individuals with sickle cell trait usually have no symptoms but can pass the gene to their children. If both parents carry the trait, their child could inherit sickle cell disease.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

+ more