Blood Tests
Several blood tests can also be used to look for sickle cell anemia:
- Blood counts reveal an abnormal hemoglobin level in the range of six to eight grams per deciliter.
- Blood films also show the red blood cells that appear as irregularly contracted cells.
- Sickle solubility tests for hemoglobin S
A blood test check for the defective form of hemoglobin underlies sickle cell anemia. In the United States, the blood test is considered as part of routine newborn screening. However, older children and adults can also be tested.
A blood sample from a vein is drawn especially from the arm. On the other hand, in children and babies, the blood sample is collected from a finger or heel. After that, the blood sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is screened for the defective hemoglobin.
If a child or parent has sickle cell anemia, the doctor suggests additional tests to check for the disease’s possible complications. However, if the child’s parent carries the sickle cell gene, you’ll be referred to a genetic counselor.