Which test is commonly used for diagnosing sickle cell anemia?

The commonly used test for diagnosing sickle cell anemia is hemoglobin electrophoresis. This test is specifically designed to separate different types of hemoglobin in a blood sample based on their differing characteristics, such as their charge and structure. In sickle cell anemia, there is a predominance of hemoglobin S (HbS), which can be detected through this process.

During electrophoresis, normal hemoglobin (HbA) and hemoglobin S are separated, allowing for the identification and quantification of different hemoglobin forms. This distinction is crucial because sickle cell anemia results from a genetic mutation that produces hemoglobin S instead of the normal hemoglobin A, leading to the characteristic sickling of red blood cells.

Other tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), can provide information about red blood cell counts and other cell types but do not specifically diagnose the type of hemoglobin present. A bone marrow biopsy is not a routine test for sickle cell anemia; it is more often used to evaluate certain types of blood disorders or cancers. The hemoglobin A1c test is used to monitor diabetes management and is not relevant for diagnosing hemoglobinopathies like sickle cell anemia.