Sickle Cell, Screen

CPT Code(s):
85660

Turnaround Time:
4 hours

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen:
Whole Blood

Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL

Transport Container:
Lavender Top Tube (EDTA)

Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature

Collection Instructions:
Whole blood collected in lavender EDTA tube; inverted several times to mix blood with anticoagulant. Specimen must be received and testing performed within 24 hours of draw.

Rejection Criteria:
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; tube not filled with minimum volume; improper labeling; transfer tubes with whole blood; specimen received with plasma removed (plasma is used for other testing)

Stability Criteria

Room Temperature:
24 hours

Refrigerated:
24 hours

Frozen:
Unaceptable

Clinical Significance

Sickle Cell Screen is a diagnostic tool used to identify the presence of sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease in a patient. It has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the following ways:

1. Screening for Sickle Cell Trait: Sickle cell trait is an inherited condition in which a person carries one copy of the abnormal hemoglobin gene, resulting in the production of both normal and abnormal hemoglobin. Sickle Cell Screen helps identify individuals who have the sickle cell trait but do not typically experience symptoms associated with sickle cell disease. This information is important for genetic counseling, family planning, and identifying individuals who may be at risk of passing the sickle cell gene to their children.

2. Diagnosis of Sickle Cell Disease: Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder characterized by the presence of two abnormal hemoglobin genes, causing the production of predominantly abnormal hemoglobin. Sickle Cell Screen can aid in diagnosing sickle cell disease by detecting the presence of abnormal hemoglobin. Early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and treatment of sickle cell disease, as it helps prevent complications and allows for timely interventions.

3. Newborn Screening: Sickle Cell Screen is a part of newborn screening programs in many countries. By screening newborns for sickle cell trait or disease shortly after birth, healthcare providers can identify affected infants and initiate early interventions. Early detection allows for the prompt implementation of preventive measures, such as antibiotic prophylaxis and vaccination, which can significantly reduce the risk of serious infections in infants with sickle cell disease.

4. Preoperative Assessment: Sickle Cell Screen is often performed before surgeries or other medical procedures that carry a risk of oxygen deprivation or stress on the body. Individuals with sickle cell trait or disease may be at increased risk of complications, such as vaso-occlusive crises or acute chest syndrome, during these procedures. The test helps healthcare providers identify individuals who may require additional precautions or specialized care during the perioperative period.

It is important to note that a positive Sickle Cell Screen result does not provide definitive confirmation of sickle cell disease. Further confirmatory tests, such as hemoglobin electrophoresis or DNA analysis, may be necessary to establish a definitive diagnosis.

In summary, Sickle Cell Screen is a valuable tool for identifying individuals with sickle cell trait or disease. It plays a crucial role in genetic counseling, family planning, newborn screening, early diagnosis, and appropriate management of sickle cell disease. The test helps healthcare providers implement preventive measures and interventions to improve patient outcomes and minimize the risk of complications associated with sickle cell trait or disease.