Definition of Sickle cell test:

A sickle cell test looks for the abnormal hemoglobin in the blood that causes sickle cell anemia.

How the test is performed:

“A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

This test is done to tell if you have abnormal hemoglobin that causes sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait.

In sickle cell disease, a person has two abnormal hemoglobin S genes. A person with sickle cell trait has only one of these abnormal genes and no symptoms, or only mild ones.

This test does not tell the difference between these two conditions. Another test, called hemoglobin electrophoresis, will be done.