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Sickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal] Test

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Sickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal] Test

Short Name: Sickle Cell Prenatal Screening

Also known as: Sickle Cell Trait Screening, Prenatal Sickle Cell Test, HBB Gene Mutation Screening

Sickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal] Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,000. Uses End Point PCR on Amniotic fluid / Chorionic villi / Cord blood samples. Results in 3-4 days. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Prenatal Genetic ScreeningPrenatalFetal🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of Sickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal] is to identify the presence of sickle cell gene mutations in the fetus during pregnancy, enabling early risk assessment, informed decision-making, and preparation for potential medical interventions or management plans.

Test Code
3194
Price
₹6,000
Sample Type
Amniotic fluid / Chorionic villi / Cord blood
Result Time
3-4 days
Fasting Required
No
Method
End Point PCR
Step 1

Sample Collection

Consult with a healthcare provider for genetic counseling and procedure scheduling. Ensure informed consent is obtained for invasive prenatal procedures.

Method: Amniocentesis, Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS), or Cordocentesis

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Sample collection is performed by a trained medical professional using sterile techniques. The procedure varies based on sample type: amniocentesis, CVS, or cordocentesis.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Monitor for any post-procedure symptoms such as cramping or bleeding. Follow-up with the healthcare provider as recommended.

Timeline: 3-4 days

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Genetic counseling and informed consent are required. Discuss risks and benefits of invasive procedures with your healthcare provider.
2
During the Test:The test involves invasive sample collection under ultrasound guidance. Local anesthesia may be used to minimize discomfort.
3
After the Test:Rest and monitor for any complications. Results will be available in 3-4 days.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of Sickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal] is to identify the presence of sickle cell gene mutations in the fetus during pregnancy, enabling early risk assessment, informed decision-making, and preparation for potential medical interventions or management plans.

How to Prepare

  • Schedule the procedure during the appropriate gestational age (typically first or second trimester)
  • Ensure all samples are labeled correctly and transported in sterile containers
  • Use cool packs for sample stability during transport if required

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532

"Prenatal screening for sickle cell mutation is essential for at-risk couples, enabling early intervention, informed family planning, and improved neonatal outcomes."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeAmniotic fluid / Chorionic villi / Cord blood
Sample VolumeAs per procedure requirements
ContainerSterile container / Sterile Normal Saline Container / EDTA Vacutainer (2ml)
Collection MethodAmniocentesis, Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS), or Cordocentesis

Sample Stability

Amniotic fluid: Stable for 24-48 hours at 2-8°C
Chorionic villi: Process immediately or store at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours
Cord blood: Use EDTA vacutainer and process within 24 hours
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed or contaminated samples
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Improper labeling or documentation

Understanding Your Results

Results from Sickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal] indicate the presence or absence of sickle cell gene mutations in the fetus. Interpretation should be done in consultation with a genetic counselor or healthcare provider.
📊

Negative

No sickle cell gene mutation detected in the fetus. Low risk for sickle cell anemia, but carrier status may still be possible if parents are carriers.

📊

Positive

Sickle cell gene mutation detected. The fetus is at risk for sickle cell anemia or trait. Further confirmatory testing and genetic counseling are recommended.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a doctor or genetic counselor immediately if results are positive, or if there are concerns about family history, symptoms, or pregnancy management.

Limitations

  • May not detect all rare or novel mutations in the HBB gene
  • Requires confirmatory testing for definitive diagnosis
  • Invasive procedures carry a small risk of complications such as miscarriage

Risks & Considerations

  • Risk of miscarriage (approximately 0.1-0.3% for amniocentesis or CVS)
  • Infection or bleeding at the procedure site
  • Premature labor in rare cases

Interfering Factors

  • Contaminated or improperly stored samples
  • Maternal cell contamination in fetal samples
  • Technical errors during PCR amplification

Compare With Similar Tests

TestSickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal]Sickle Cell Solubility TestHemoglobin Electrophoresis
ComparisonSickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal]A rapid screening test for sickle cell trait, but not specific for prenatal diagnosis or mutation detection.Identifies abnormal hemoglobin types, useful for diagnosis but may require postnatal confirmation for prenatal cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sickle Cell Mutation Screening [Prenatal]?
It is a genetic test performed during pregnancy to detect mutations in the HBB gene that cause sickle cell anemia, helping assess fetal risk.
Why is this test important during pregnancy?
It allows early detection of sickle cell disease in the fetus, enabling informed decisions, timely interventions, and preparation for newborn care.
What samples are required for this test?
Samples can be amniotic fluid, chorionic villi, or cord blood, collected via invasive procedures like amniocentesis or CVS.
How is the test performed?
The test uses End Point PCR to analyze fetal DNA from the collected sample for specific sickle cell mutations.
What are the risks associated with the test?
Risks include a small chance of miscarriage, infection, or bleeding from invasive procedures, but these are generally low with skilled practitioners.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 3-4 days after sample collection.
What do positive results mean?
Positive results indicate the fetus has sickle cell gene mutations, increasing the risk for sickle cell anemia or trait. Genetic counseling is recommended.
Can this test detect all types of sickle cell mutations?
It targets common mutations but may not detect all rare variants. Confirmatory testing may be needed for comprehensive analysis.
Is the test covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. It is advisable to check with your provider for specific details.
How accurate is the screening?
The test is highly accurate for detecting targeted mutations, but accuracy depends on sample quality and laboratory standards.
What should I do if the test is positive?
Consult a genetic counselor or hematologist for further evaluation, confirmatory testing, and management options.
Are there any alternatives to this test?
Alternatives include postnatal newborn screening or non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for some hemoglobin disorders, but invasive prenatal screening remains standard for definitive diagnosis.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

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