A sickle cell test is a simple blood test used to determine if you have sickle cell disease (SCD) or sickle cell trait. People with SCD have red blood cells (RBCs) that are abnormally shaped. Sickle cells are shaped like a crescent moon. Normal RBCs look like doughnuts.
The sickle cell test is part of routine screening performed on a baby after they’re born. However, it can be used on older children and adults when needed.