Mass screening for sickle cell hemoglobin. Is there an optimal method?

R. M. Nalbandian, F. R. Camp Jr, R. L. Henry and N. F. Conte

The problem of screening large civilian and military populations for sickle cell hemoglobin and related conditions has been approached recently by three distinct methods. One method specifies hemoglobin electrophoresis as the initial screening technique, followed by a solubility (dithionite) test when a (nonspecific) "S band" is noted. Another method requires the use of the automated dithionite test, followed, when positive, by hemoglobin electrophoresis. A third method is a dual, automated technique for detecting anemia or hemoglobin S or both in the initial screening study; hemoglobin electrophoresis studies are done when indicated. All three methods provide data suitable for accurate diagnosis and genetic counseling, but substantial variations in costs and redundancy of data are found among these methods. Because it gives the "biggest diagnostic bang for the buck", the third merits widespread adoption.