4

How is Sickle Cell Anemia diagnosed?

See how Sickle Cell Anemia is diagnosed. Which specialists are essential to meet, what tests are needed and other useful information for the diagnosis of Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle Cell Anemia diagnosis

Sickle Cell Anemia is a genetic disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin, a protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. This condition primarily affects individuals of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian descent. Diagnosing sickle cell anemia involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, laboratory tests, and genetic testing.



Medical History Assessment


During the diagnostic process, the healthcare provider will inquire about the patient's medical history, including any symptoms experienced, family history of sickle cell anemia, and ethnic background. It is crucial to provide accurate information to aid in the diagnosis.



Physical Examination


A physical examination is conducted to assess the patient's overall health and look for signs and symptoms associated with sickle cell anemia. The healthcare provider may examine the patient's skin, eyes, and mucous membranes for signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) and pallor (pale appearance). They may also check for enlarged organs or abnormal heart and lung sounds.



Laboratory Tests


Several laboratory tests are used to diagnose sickle cell anemia:



Complete Blood Count (CBC)


A CBC is a routine blood test that provides information about the number and characteristics of different blood cells. In sickle cell anemia, the CBC may reveal a low red blood cell count (anemia), elevated white blood cell count (indicating infection or inflammation), and low platelet count (thrombocytopenia).



Sickling Test


The sickling test is performed by exposing a blood sample to low oxygen levels. In individuals with sickle cell anemia, the red blood cells become rigid and assume a characteristic sickle shape. This test helps confirm the presence of sickle cell disease.



Hemoglobin Electrophoresis


Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a laboratory technique that separates different types of hemoglobin based on their electrical charge. This test can identify the specific type of abnormal hemoglobin present in sickle cell anemia, such as hemoglobin S (HbS).



Reticulocyte Count


A reticulocyte count measures the number of young red blood cells in the bloodstream. In sickle cell anemia, the bone marrow produces red blood cells at an increased rate to compensate for their shorter lifespan. Therefore, a high reticulocyte count is often observed.



Genetic Testing


Genetic testing is the most definitive method to diagnose sickle cell anemia. It involves analyzing a blood sample to identify specific genetic mutations associated with the condition, such as the presence of two abnormal hemoglobin S (HbS) genes. Genetic testing can also determine if an individual carries the sickle cell trait, which means they have one abnormal gene but do not develop the disease themselves.



Conclusion


Diagnosing sickle cell anemia involves a comprehensive approach that includes medical history assessment, physical examination, laboratory tests, and genetic testing. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of the condition.


Diseasemaps
1 answer

Sickle Cell Anemia diagnosis

Sickle Cell Anemia life expectancy

What is the life expectancy of someone with Sickle Cell Anemia?

2 answers
Celebrities with Sickle Cell Anemia

Celebrities with Sickle Cell Anemia

1 answer
Is Sickle Cell Anemia hereditary?

Is Sickle Cell Anemia hereditary?

2 answers
Is Sickle Cell Anemia contagious?

Is Sickle Cell Anemia contagious?

2 answers
Natural treatment of Sickle Cell Anemia

Is there any natural treatment for Sickle Cell Anemia?

1 answer
ICD9 and ICD10 codes of Sickle Cell Anemia

ICD10 code of Sickle Cell Anemia and ICD9 code

2 answers
Living with Sickle Cell Anemia

Living with Sickle Cell Anemia. How to live with Sickle Cell Anemia?

1 answer
Sickle Cell Anemia diet

Sickle Cell Anemia diet. Is there a diet which improves the quality of life...

1 answer

World map of Sickle Cell Anemia

Find people with Sickle Cell Anemia through the map. Connect with them and share experiences. Join the Sickle Cell Anemia community.

Stories of Sickle Cell Anemia

SICKLE CELL ANEMIA STORIES
Sickle Cell Anemia stories
MY NAME IS CHANTAL, I'M 48 YEARS OLD. I WAS BORN WITH SICKLECELL DISEASE AND GOT MY FIRST PAIN ATTACK WHEN I WAS SIX YEARS OLD. I NEVER WANTED TO TALK ABOUT IT UNTIL I MET A COUSIN WITH SCD WHO HAD A HARD TIME DEALING WITH IT. I FOUND OUT THAT TALKIN...

Tell your story and help others

Tell my story

Sickle Cell Anemia forum

SICKLE CELL ANEMIA FORUM

Ask a question and get answers from other users.

Ask a question

Find your symptoms soulmates

From now on you can add your symptoms in diseasemaps and find your symptoms soulmates. Symptoms soulmates are people with similar symptoms to you.

Symptoms soulmates

Add your symptoms and discover your soulmates map

Soulmates map