A sickle cell trait test is a diagnostic procedure that looks for one abnormal gene in your hemoglobin. While this condition may be life-threatening, it is generally harmless. In fact, people with sickle cell trait can often drive themselves home and perform daily activities. This screening takes about one business day to complete for adults. Depending on your state, it may take two weeks or more for newborn screenings, while one business day for an adult.
Hemoglobin solubility test
A simple blood test called a hemoglobin solubility test can distinguish between the two different types of sickle cell disease. This test uses a drop of blood with the normal hemoglobin in it and a small amount of sickle hemoglobin S to separate the two types of haemoglobin. Although the test is not specific, it will show if there is a high concentration of sickle haemoglobin S in the blood. If the test detects the presence of sickle haemoglobin S, the sample will be cloudy.
A positive result on the solubility test can be a sign that a patient is sickle cell anemic. In addition to measuring sickling hemoglobin, this test can also detect polycythemia and various abnormal hemoglobins. If the results of the test are positive, the sickle cell trait should be confirmed through a further test called hemoglobin fractionation. In cases where the test does not show an abnormal hemoglobin type, a hemoglobin electrophoresis is usually performed to further evaluate the case.
Hemoglobin electrophoresis
You can undergo a hemoglobin electrophoresis test for sickle cell trait before you give birth to your child. Fortunately, this test does not require any special preparation. Your healthcare provider will draw blood from your arm using a tourniquet and feel for a suitable vein. The technician will then insert a needle into the vein and clean it with alcohol wipes before starting the procedure. After the test, you will be given a small bandage or gauze patch to cover the blood collection site. You can then go home.
The main purpose of hemoglobin electrophoresis is to compare your blood with that of other tests. The results of this test are often compared to a complete blood count or blood smear. The results of the two tests may be contradictory, so it is important to seek the advice of a health care provider before making a decision. A negative result means you don’t have sickle cell disease. However, it doesn’t rule out other hemoglobin abnormalities.
Symptoms of sickle cell trait
People with sickle cell disease may experience episodes of pain in the lungs, bones, muscles, spleen, or chest. Pain can range from minor to severe, but it is always best to consult your doctor to determine the most effective treatment. While symptoms can vary widely, they usually clear up on their own once the condition has been diagnosed. People with sickle cell trait should keep their fluid intake as high as possible to avoid dehydration.
Sickle cell disease is a group of conditions in which a person inherits one copy of the sickle hemoglobin gene from both parents. In normal people, red blood cells are oval-shaped with a small dip in the middle. A sickle-shaped red blood cell is a specialized type of hemoglobin, unable to move smoothly through the blood vessels, and can clog the walls of the blood vessels. This causes problems with the oxygen delivery process and increases the risk of blood clots.
Treatment options
If you suspect your child has sickle cell disease, your doctor may recommend a blood test. A sickle cell trait is a condition that affects the blood, causing it to have abnormal red blood cells. The results of this test will help determine whether your child needs treatment. If you suspect they have sickle cell trait, you will be offered treatments as soon as possible. These treatments can prevent severe complications such as a stroke.
Symptoms of sickle cell disease can be difficult to detect. Screening tests can diagnose this condition before symptoms develop. A blood test will detect abnormal hemoglobin proteins and alert you to potential problems. The doctor may also recommend genetic counseling for prospective parents. Genetic counseling can also help them determine the chances of passing on the disease to their child. Those with sickle cell trait may be referred to genetic counseling for further evaluation.
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