Sickle Solubility, Blood

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC25024Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID SDEXCPT Code 85660

Sickle Solubility, Blood

Clinical Use

Use

The Sickle Solubility Test is used for screening the presence or absence of hemoglobin S (sickle cell disease). It helps in identifying individuals who may have sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait by examining the solubility of deoxygenated hemoglobin S. The test is particularly applicable to people of African or Middle Eastern descent, where these conditions are more prevalent. A positive result indicates the presence of hemoglobin S, and further evaluation through other tests like hemoglobin electrophoresis is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Special Instructions

This test is a screening tool only. For quantification of hemoglobin S, the Hemoglobin Electrophoresis Evaluation should be ordered. Patient's age and recent transfusion information are required. If not ordering electronically, complete and send the Benign Hematology Test Request Form with the specimen.

Limitations

A positive Sickle Solubility Test is presumptive for hemoglobin S but cannot differentiate between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease. It also fails to identify hemoglobin variants such as Hb C-Harlem and Hb I that may produce a positive result. False positives can occur due to large numbers of nucleated RBCs or hypergammaglobulinemia, while false negatives may result from low Hb S concentration due to age or transfusion. Packed red blood cells reduce both false negatives and positives, though the test remains a limited screening method.

Test Details

New York Approved