Sickle cell blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Some people inherit changes in the genes that make haemoglobin. Carrying one altered gene, called a trait, usually causes no symptoms, but if both parents carry a trait their child may inherit a condition such as sickle cell disease or thalassaemia.

This screen uses a sickle solubility test and haemoglobin electrophoresis, which separates the different types of haemoglobin in your blood so variants such as haemoglobin S and C can be identified and measured. The full blood count adds red cell measurements, including mean cell volume and mean cell haemoglobin, which help identify a possible thalassaemia trait.

The price includes your sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You are planning a pregnancy and want to know your carrier status.
• Your partner carries a sickle cell or thalassaemia trait.
• You have family members with sickle cell disease, sickle cell trait or thalassaemia.
• You have been told your red cells are small but your iron levels are normal.
• You do not know whether you were screened as a newborn or would like your status confirmed.

Understanding your result

Your report describes the types and proportions of haemoglobin found, along with the full blood count against the laboratory reference ranges. A pattern showing mostly normal haemoglobin with some haemoglobin S indicates sickle cell trait. Small red cells with normal iron may suggest a thalassaemia trait, which sometimes needs further specialist testing to confirm.

Carrier results have implications for family planning, so they are best discussed with your practitioner and, where relevant, your GP, midwife or a genetic counsellor. A normal result does not exclude every rare haemoglobin variant. A value outside the range is best seen as a question to explore, not an answer.

Preparing for your test

You can eat and drink normally beforehand. Tell us if you have had a blood transfusion in the last three to four months, as donated blood can mask your own haemoglobin pattern. Low iron can also affect the electrophoresis result, so let us know if you are being treated for iron deficiency. If you are pregnant, the NHS offers screening in early pregnancy, and your midwife can arrange it.

If your red cells are small, the iron blood tests help separate iron deficiency from a trait, and the Full Blood Count is available on its own. Compare the alternatives on our page showing every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a sickle cell test in Chiswick?

The Sickle Cell Screen costs £259 at our Chiswick clinic and includes your blood sample, the sickle test, haemoglobin electrophoresis and full blood count at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

What is the difference between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease?

Sickle cell trait means you carry one altered gene and usually have no symptoms. Sickle cell disease occurs when a person inherits altered genes from both parents and needs specialist care.

Does this test also check for thalassaemia?

It includes red cell measurements and electrophoresis that can suggest a thalassaemia trait. Some types, especially alpha thalassaemia trait, need further specialist testing to confirm.

Should my partner be tested too?

If you are planning a family and either of you has a trait, testing both partners helps you understand the chance of passing on a condition. Your practitioner can advise.