Lab test

Sickle Cell Anemia Screening Test

A sickle cell screening test checks for hemoglobin S (HbS), the abnormal hemoglobin that causes sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease.

Typical price

From $118

Results

1-3 business days

Preparation

See preparation notes below

Sample

Blood draw or sample collection at a local center

A sickle cell screening test checks for hemoglobin S (HbS), the abnormal hemoglobin that causes sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease. The screening test is usually followed by a confirmatory test such as hemoglobin electrophoresis when HbS is detected. It is used to identify people who carry the trait, to help evaluate symptoms such as anemia or episodes of pain, and to support family planning decisions. Newborn screening programs also include this testing. A screening result is not a diagnosis by itself and should be reviewed with a healthcare provider.

• Hemoglobin S (HbS) An abnormal form of hemoglobin that can cause red blood cells to sickle; its presence helps identify sickle cell trait or disease.

• People with a family history of sickle cell disease or trait
• Individuals with ancestry from regions where sickle cell is more common
• Couples planning a pregnancy who want to know their carrier status
• People with symptoms such as unexplained anemia or episodes of severe pain
• Those following up an abnormal newborn screening result

• No fasting is required for this test
• A standard blood draw is used to collect the sample
• Tell the lab about any recent blood transfusion, since it can affect hemoglobin results
• Follow any instructions provided with your order

If hemoglobin S is detected, the pattern of hemoglobins helps show whether a person has sickle cell trait, in which one copy of the gene is present, or sickle cell disease, in which two abnormal copies are present. A screening result is typically confirmed with hemoglobin electrophoresis before conclusions are drawn. A negative screen means HbS was not detected. Because results can affect family planning and health monitoring, discuss them with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor who can explain their meaning.

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia