Evaluating the reliability of the sickling test and peripheral blood film method for screening of sickle cell disease: a study protocol

Abstract

Background: Mutations in beta-globin are the cause of a widespread condition known as sickle cell disease (SCD). Sickle cells cause organ damage, hemolysis of blood cells, weakness, and sometimes even death. SCD can be effectively managed and mortality can be reduced through early detection. This protocol’s study aims to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the sickling test, peripheral blood smear, and hemoglobin electrophoresis for SCD screening. Methods: In this study,75 cases of SCD will be selected. 5ml blood will be drawn into a dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tube for testing of SCD. Testing will involve: the sickling test, where an equal volume of K2EDTA blood will be mixed with 2% sodium metabisulfite; the peripheral blood smear, where Leishman’s stain will be placed on a thin film of blood for 2 minutes; and Hb electrophoresis, where equal parts of distilled water and packed cells will be combined and then the mixture will be centrifuged. Results: We will be comparing between the sickling test and the peripheral blood film method, and we will conclude depending upon the results as to which test is better. Conclusions: Using peripheral blood smear images, SCD can be quickly diagnosed. A peripheral smear-based differential diagnosis may be possible but requires special tests such as hemoglobin electrophoresis to confirm the diagnosis. Therefore, early diagnosis can help initiate transfusion therapy and create a better prognosis.