Sickle cell test

Sickledex; Hgb S test

The sickle cell test looks for the abnormal hemoglobin in the blood that causes the disorder sickle cell disease.

Red blood cells, sickle cell

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disease in which the red blood cells produce abnormal pigment (hemoglobin). The abnormal hemoglobin causes deformity of the red blood cells into crescent or sickle-shapes, as seen in this photomicrograph.

Red blood cells - multiple sickle cells

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disorder in which abnormal hemoglobin (the red pigment inside red blood cells) is produced. The abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to assume a sickle shape, like the ones seen in this photomicrograph.

Red blood cells - sickle cells

These crescent or sickle-shaped red blood cells (RBCs) are present with Sickle cell anemia, and stand out clearly against the normal round RBCs. These abnormally shaped cells may become entangled and block blood flow in the small blood vessels (capillaries).

Red blood cells - sickle and Pappenheimer

This photomicrograph of red blood cells (RBCs) shows both sickle-shaped and Pappenheimer bodies.

How the Test is Performed

How the Test will Feel

Why the Test is Performed

Normal Results

What Abnormal Results Mean

Risks