Question

Is the metabisulfite screen positive in sickle cell disease or trait?

1) Positive in sickle cell disease
2) Positive in sickle cell trait
3) Negative in both sickle cell disease and trait
4) Cannot be determined

Answer 1

The metabisulfite screen is positive in both sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait.

Step-by-step explanation:

The metabisulfite screen is used to detect the presence of sickle cell disease or trait. In this screening test, a mixture of sodium metabisulfite and a blood sample is prepared. If a person has sickle cell disease or trait, their red blood cells will undergo a process called sickling when exposed to the metabisulfite solution.

The metabisulfite screen is positive in both sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait. This means that if a person has either sickle cell disease or trait, their red blood cells will sickle when exposed to the metabisulfite solution. Therefore, options 1) Positive in sickle cell disease and 2) Positive in sickle cell trait are both correct.