Question

A child suspected of having sickle cell disease (SCD) is seen in a clinic, and laboratory studies are performed. Which laboratory value is likely to be increased in sickle cell disease?

a) Hemoglobin A
b) Hemoglobin F
c) Hemoglobin S
d) Hemoglobin C

Answer 1

The laboratory value likely to be increased in sickle cell disease is Hemoglobin S (HbS).

Step-by-step explanation:

In sickle cell disease (SCD), the laboratory value that is likely to be increased is Hemoglobin S (HbS). Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder caused by the production of an abnormal type of hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S. Hemoglobin S delivers less oxygen to tissues and causes red blood cells to assume a sickle shape, especially at low oxygen concentrations. This abnormal shape can lead to blockages in blood vessels, causing a variety of serious health problems.