Sickle Cell Study Test in Kathmandu
Same Day turnaround at Peoples Diagnostics Laboratory & Clinic, Sanobharang. Walk in 7AM–8PM, or pre-book via WhatsApp.
About this test
The sickle cell study looks for an inherited abnormal haemoglobin called haemoglobin S, which makes red blood cells stiffen and warp into a crescent or sickle shape when oxygen levels fall. In the laboratory we add a reducing agent such as sodium metabisulphite, or use a solubility method, to deprive the cells of oxygen and watch whether the characteristic sickling appears under the microscope. The test simply tells us whether haemoglobin S is present; it does not by itself separate someone who merely carries the trait (one faulty gene, usually healthy) from someone with full sickle cell disease (two faulty genes), so a positive result is always confirmed with haemoglobin electrophoresis or HPLC. Doctors order it when a person has unexplained anaemia, recurring bouts of bone, joint or abdominal pain, jaundice, episodes of severe pain after exertion, infection or dehydration, or a family history of the condition. In Nepal it carries particular importance among the Tharu and certain other indigenous communities of the Terai, where the sickle gene occurs at notably high frequency, and it is increasingly requested during pregnancy planning, before surgery or anaesthesia, and as part of screening when both partners may be carriers. Picking up the trait early allows couples to receive genetic counselling and helps doctors avoid situations of low oxygen that can trigger a painful crisis. The result is interpreted alongside a complete blood count, the peripheral blood film and, where needed, confirmatory haemoglobin studies.
Sample type
Whole blood (EDTA)
Preparation
No fasting required. If you have had a blood transfusion in the past three to four months, please tell us, as transfused donor cells can mask your own result.
Turnaround time
Reports for Sickle Cell Study are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.
Also known as
Other hematology tests we run
These are routinely ordered alongside Sickle Cell Study or as part of the same diagnostic workup.
How to book
WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.
Not sure if this is the right test?
Send us a WhatsApp message describing your symptoms or your doctor's recommendation — we'll confirm which test fits best.