What laboratory test is used to confirm the specific diagnosis of sickle cell anemia?

Hemoglobin electrophoresis is the definitive laboratory test used to confirm the specific diagnosis of sickle cell anemia. This test separates different types of hemoglobin in the blood based on their electric charge and molecular weight. In the case of sickle cell anemia, the presence of hemoglobin S (HbS), which is the abnormal hemoglobin responsible for the disease, is identified.

While other tests may provide supporting information regarding a patient's overall hematologic status, they do not specifically confirm sickle cell anemia. For instance, a complete blood count can show anemia and possible abnormalities in red cell indices, but it does not differentiate between types of hemoglobin. Blood smear examination may reveal sickled red blood cells but lacks the specificity needed to confirm the diagnosis without additional testing. A serum bilirubin test can indicate hemolysis but, like the other tests, does not confirm sickle cell anemia on its own. Therefore, hemoglobin electrophoresis is the key test that provides both specificity and confirmation of the disease.