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The Sickling Test is used to detect sickle cell disease and related conditions. It is a quick and straightforward procedure, with costs depending on the lab and location. Understanding the normal range helps doctors diagnose and manage your health effectively. The test is generally safe, with minimal risks like mild pain or discomfort during blood sample collection.
What is the Sickling test?
A sickling test is used to detect sickle cell disorders or traits. Sickle cell disease is a hereditary blood condition that creates malformed RECs. RBCs are biconcave, disc-shaped blood components that transport oxygen to various body parts.
However, in a sickle cell disease patient, the RBCs are irregularly shaped like a crescent sickle, hence the name sickle cell disease. Because irregularly shaped RBCs have a reduced ability to carry oxygen, the person becomes anemic. The Sickling test determines the type of hemoglobin in the blood.
Why is the Sickling test Done?
A sickling test is used to identify sickle cell disorders like:
- Haemoglobin SB+ (beta) thalassemia
- Sickle Cell Anaemia
- Haemoglobin SC disease
- To screen newborns for sickle cell traits
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Get Second OpinionWho Should Take the Sickling test?
The sickling test is important for people who might have sickle cell disease or carry the sickle cell trait. You should think about getting the test if:
- You have symptoms like unexplained tiredness, frequent infections, swelling, or sudden pain in the body.
- You have a family history of sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait.
- You are pregnant or planning to have children, especially if sickle cell runs in your family.
- You are a newborn baby, as part of routine screening in some places.
- You come from regions where sickle cell is more common, like Africa, India, the Middle East, or parts of the Mediterranean.
- You need certain medical treatments or surgeries and your doctor needs to check your blood condition first.
How Should I Prepare for the Sickling test?
The sickling test is simple and usually doesn't need much preparation. Here's what you should know:
- No fasting needed: You can eat and drink normally before the test.
- Take your medicines: You can continue your regular medicines unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water helps make it easier to collect your blood sample.
- Inform your doctor: Tell your doctor about any health conditions or medicines you are taking.
- Relax: There is no special preparation, and the test is quick and safe.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the Sickling Test and How?
For the sickling test, a small blood sample is needed. Here's how it is done:
- A healthcare worker will clean a spot on your arm with alcohol.
- They will gently insert a small needle into a vein to collect a little blood into a tube.
- The blood is then sent to the lab to check for sickle-shaped red blood cells.
Are There Other Ways to Collect the Sample for the Sickling test?
For most people, the sickling test is done using a regular blood sample from a vein. However, in some cases, there are other ways to collect the blood:
- Finger prick: For babies or small children, a tiny prick on the finger or heel can be used to collect a few drops of blood.
- Heel prick: For newborns, a quick heel prick is common to collect the sample for testing.
How is the Sickling test Performed?
The sickling test is a quick and simple blood test. Here's what usually happens:
- Preparation: A healthcare worker will ask you to sit comfortably. They will clean the skin on your arm with an alcohol wipe.
- Blood collection: A small needle is gently inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw a small amount of blood into a tube.
- Sample processing: The blood sample is sent to the lab, where it is mixed with a special solution to check if the red blood cells change into a sickle shape.
- Completion: The whole blood collection process takes just a few minutes. You can go back to your normal activities right after.
- Results: Once the test is complete, your doctor will explain the results to you and guide you on what to do next.
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How Long Does the Sickling Test Take?
The blood sample collection for the sickling test usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Once the sample is collected, the test results are generally ready within 12 to 24 hours, depending on the lab's processing time. Your doctor or the lab will inform you when and how you will receive your results.
When Will I Get My Sickling Test Results?
You will usually receive your Sickling Test results within 12 to 24 hours, depending on the lab's processing time. Reports are sent directly to you via WhatsApp or provided as a printed copy. Once you have your results, our doctor will explain them clearly and guide you on the next steps, if needed.
How Do I Understand My Sickling test Results?
Normal (Negative) Result:
A negative sickling test means that no sickle-shaped red blood cells were found. This usually means you do not have sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait.
Abnormal (Positive) Result:
A positive sickling test means that some of your red blood cells changed into a sickle shape. This could mean you either have sickle cell disease or you carry the sickle cell trait. Your doctor may suggest more tests to confirm the result and plan the right treatment if needed.
What Should I Do After Getting My Sickling Test Results?
After you receive your Sickling Test results, here's what you should do:
If your result is normal
No further action may be needed. Just keep your report for your medical records.
If your result is positive
- Follow up with your doctor to understand the next steps.
- Further tests like hemoglobin electrophoresis may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
- Start treatment or management if sickle cell disease is confirmed.
- Family members may also be advised to get tested if needed.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of the Sickling test?
The sickling test is generally very safe. It only involves taking a small blood sample. You might feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, and a small bruise may appear at the spot, but this goes away quickly. Serious problems are very rare. Overall, the test is quick, safe, and causes very little discomfort.
Is the Sickling Test Painful?
The sickling test is usually not painful. You may feel a small pinch when the needle is inserted to take the blood sample. Some people might have slight soreness or a small bruise at the spot, but it goes away quickly. Overall, the test is very quick and causes only mild discomfort, if any.
What are the Factors Affecting Sickling Test Cost?
The cost of the sickling test can vary based on several factors, such as:
- Type of lab or hospital: Bigger or specialized hospitals may charge more.
- Location: Test prices may be higher in bigger cities compared to smaller towns.
- Test method: Some labs may use advanced testing methods, which can cost more.
- Additional services: If you need extra consultations, urgent reports, or home sample collection, the price might increase.
How Much Does the Sickling Test Cost in India?
The average cost of a Sickling Test in India is around Rs.300 to Rs.800. However, the price can change depending on the hospital, lab, and city. It's always best to check with the lab directly to get the exact and latest cost.
Sickling test Test Price in Different Cities Across India
| City | Price |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Vizag | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Nashik | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Nellore | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Chandanagar | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Srikakulam | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Sangamner | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Kurnool | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Kakinada | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Karimnagar | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Nizamabad | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Navi-Mumbai | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Vizianagaram | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Bengaluru | Rs. 400 to Rs. 700 |
| Warangal | Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 |
| Pune | Rs. 300 to Rs. 650 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
There is currently no cure for sickle cell disease. Treatments, however, can help manage symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Sickle cell disease is a genetic condition that cannot be avoided. However, genetic counseling and prenatal testing can assist families in understanding their risk of having a child with sickle cell disease and making educated family planning decisions.
Results from a Sickling test are usually available within a few hours, depending on the laboratory's processing time.
No, the Sickle Cell test is a screening tool. To confirm sickle cell disease, further tests, such as hemoglobin electrophoresis or DNA testing, may be required.
The Sickling test is generally accurate in detecting sickle-shaped cells, but confirmatory tests like hemoglobin electrophoresis are necessary for a definitive diagnosis of sickle cell disease.
