A rapid test for sickle hemoglobin

Vigorous shaking of oxygenated sickle hemoglobin (Hb S) in solution causes precipitation of the hemoglobin. This unusual property of Hb S forms the basis of a simple test for the presence of Hb S. Comparison of results of this test with those from cellulose acetate electrophoresis in blood samples from 599 patients showed no false-positive or false-negative results. The group tested included 55 persons with sickling disorders and 47 others with unusual hemoglobin patterns. This test may be used to confirm the presence of Hb S or to establish the diagnosis of sickling disorders rapidly in the clinic or at the bedside.