Edit page | Page history | Printable version

metabisulfite test

A test for sickle cell haemoglobin (hb S); deoxygenation of cells containing hb S is enhanced by addition of sodium metabisulfite to the blood, causing sickling visible on a slide; certain other abnormal haemoglobins (Hb CHarlem and Hb I) also sickle in this test.