This test detects if a red blood cell inappropriately changes into a sickle shape (crescent shape) after a blood sample is mixed with a chemical that will reduce the amount of oxygen it carries. This test is used to screen for an abnormal type of hemoglobin called Hemoglobin S in blood.

SPECIMEN: 2 mL (1 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Lavender Top (EDTA) tube.
STABILITY: Room: 6 hrs; Refrigerated: 48 hrs; Frozen: NA
REPORT: Daily
USAGE: Sickle cell anemia is a multisystem disease associated with episodes of acute illness and progressive organ damage. Hemoglobin polymerization, leading to erythrocyte rigidity and vaso-occlusion is central to the pathophysiology of the disease, but the importance of chronic anemia, hemolysis, and vasculopathy has been established.