Merita Health - Healthcare Services in Kampala, Uganda

Genetic Sickle Cell Testing

Comprehensive genetic screening for sickle cell disease and traits

Sickle Cell Testing

About Sickle Cell Testing

Merita Health offers comprehensive genetic screening for sickle cell disease to help with early diagnosis, family planning, and tailored treatment options to manage complications of the disease. Our testing services are crucial for individuals and couples considering pregnancy.

Our Sickle Cell Testing Services

  • Newborn Screening: Early detection through heel prick test
  • Carrier Testing: Identifies sickle cell trait carriers
  • Diagnostic Testing: Confirms sickle cell disease diagnosis
  • Prenatal Testing: Testing during pregnancy
  • Preconception Counseling: For couples planning pregnancy
  • Family Studies: Testing of family members

Understanding Sickle Cell Results

Test Result Genetic Makeup Health Implications Reproductive Risk
Normal (AA) Two normal hemoglobin genes No sickle cell disease or trait No risk of passing sickle cell disease
Sickle Cell Trait (AS) One normal, one sickle gene Usually no symptoms, carrier state 50% chance of passing trait to children
Sickle Cell Disease (SS) Two sickle genes Chronic anemia, pain crises, complications 100% chance of passing sickle gene
Other Variants (SC, Sβ-thal) Combination with other hemoglobin variants Milder to moderate symptoms Varies based on partner's status

Who Should Get Tested?

We recommend sickle cell testing for:

  • All newborns (routine screening)
  • Individuals with family history of sickle cell disease
  • Couples planning pregnancy (preconception screening)
  • Pregnant women and their partners
  • People of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or Indian descent
  • Individuals with unexplained anemia or symptoms
  • Athletes requiring screening (some sports organizations)
  • Anyone wanting to know their sickle cell status

Testing Methods We Use

  1. Hemoglobin Electrophoresis: Separates different hemoglobin types
  2. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): Quantitative hemoglobin analysis
  3. DNA Analysis: Genetic testing for precise diagnosis
  4. Solubility Tests: Initial screening tests
  5. Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates anemia and red cell indices
  6. Peripheral Blood Smear: Microscopic examination of blood cells

Benefits of Sickle Cell Testing

  • Early diagnosis and intervention for affected infants
  • Informed family planning decisions
  • Prevention of sickle cell disease through carrier screening
  • Early treatment to prevent complications
  • Genetic counseling for at-risk families
  • Prenatal diagnosis options for affected pregnancies
  • Newborn screening leading to early prophylactic treatment
  • Peace of mind through knowledge of genetic status

Service Details

  • Duration: 30-45 minutes consultation
  • Preparation: No special preparation needed
  • Results: 3-7 business days
  • Counseling: Included with all tests
  • Cost: Affordable testing options

Get Tested Today

Know your sickle cell status for informed health decisions.

Book Sickle Cell Test Call: +256 787 846806

Related Services

Quick Facts

  • ✓ Comprehensive genetic testing
  • ✓ Preconception counseling available
  • ✓ Newborn screening services
  • ✓ Genetic counseling included
  • ✓ Confidential and private

Frequently Asked Questions

Sickle cell trait means you carry one copy of the sickle gene (AS) and one normal gene (A). People with trait are generally healthy but can pass the gene to children. Sickle cell disease means you have two copies of the sickle gene (SS) or one sickle gene plus another abnormal hemoglobin gene. This causes red blood cells to sickle, leading to anemia, pain crises, and organ damage. Trait carriers rarely have symptoms except under extreme conditions.

When both parents have sickle cell trait (AS x AS), each pregnancy has: 25% chance of child with normal hemoglobin (AA), 50% chance of child with sickle cell trait (AS), 25% chance of child with sickle cell disease (SS). This is why preconception screening is so important - it allows couples to understand their risks and consider options like prenatal diagnosis or preimplantation genetic diagnosis.

The only potential cure for sickle cell disease is a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, but this is only available to a small percentage of patients with matched donors and carries significant risks. However, many treatments can manage symptoms and prevent complications: Hydroxyurea reduces pain crises, Blood transfusions for severe anemia, Pain management during crises, Antibiotics to prevent infections, and recently, new medications like crizanlizumab and voxelotor. Gene therapy is an emerging treatment option.

Know Your Genetic Status

Comprehensive sickle cell testing for early diagnosis and family planning.

Book Sickle Cell Test Call: +256 787 846806
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