Hemoglobin Solubility

Used to determine the presence of sickling hemoglobins. (e.g. hemoglobin-s, hemoglobin c-Harlem). It is important to detect Hb-S in order to determine which individuals are at risk of crisis when exposed to prolonged anoxia that may occur during surgery, athletic programs or high altitude conditions.

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder in which there is abnormal production of hemoglobin. This abnormal hemoglobin is called hemoglobin S. Hemoglobin is the molecule to which oxygen molecules bind to in order to be transported around the body. If the structure of the hemoglobin molecule is abnormal, oxygen is unable to bind and there is a shortage of oxygen delivery to the tissues. If someone has both genes that code for the sickle cells, they will die in infancy. This test is performed to detect the presence of hemoglobin S, and therefore, confirm that the person is a carrier of the sickle cell trait.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

Hemolytic anemia
pain in the bones, joints, lungs, and stomach due to a sickle crisis
Increased number and frequency of infections
Coughing, chest pain, and fever

Also Known As: Sickle Cell Test, Hgb Solubility