The gold standard for diagnosing sickle cell anemia is which test?

The correct answer highlights the importance of hemoglobin electrophoresis as the definitive diagnostic tool for sickle cell anemia. This test separates different types of hemoglobin in the blood based on their electrical charge and size, allowing healthcare professionals to identify the presence of hemoglobin S, which is the abnormal form of hemoglobin that characterizes sickle cell disease.

By quantifying the amount of hemoglobin S compared to other types of hemoglobin, such as hemoglobin A (normal hemoglobin) and hemoglobin F (fetal hemoglobin), the test provides a clear indication of the disease's presence and severity. This level of specificity and the ability to differentiate between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease make hemoglobin electrophoresis the gold standard in diagnosing this condition.

While other options like a reticulocyte count, a sickle cell test, and a peripheral blood smear may provide supportive information, they do not offer the same level of diagnostic accuracy for sickle cell anemia as hemoglobin electrophoresis does. For instance, a reticulocyte count assesses bone marrow activity but does not specifically confirm the presence of sickle cell hemoglobin. The sickle cell test is a screening tool that can indicate the potential presence of the disease but does