Comparative Evaluation of Hematological Parameters in Sickle Cell Trait and Sickle Cell Disease

Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary hemoglobinopathy caused by a mutation in the β-globin gene that results in the formation of hemoglobin S (HbS). Under hypoxic conditions, HbS polymerizes and causes red blood cells to assume a sickle shape, leading to hemolysis and vaso-occlusive complications. Individuals with sickle cell trait (SCT) are usually asymptomatic but may show mild hematological variations. Sickle cell disorders are highly prevalent in several regions of India, particularly among tribal populations.

Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. Patients diagnosed with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were included. Hematological parameters, including hemoglobin, RBC count, MCV, MCH, MCHC, and RDW, were recorded and compared between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease groups. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.

Results: A total of 120 patients were included in the study. Among them, 70 (58.3%) had sickle cell trait and 50 (41.7%) had sickle cell disease. The majority of participants belonged to the 18–30 years age group (41.7%), and males constituted 55% of the study population. Patients with sickle cell disease showed significantly lower hemoglobin levels (8.9 ± 1.8 g/dL) compared with trait carriers (11.8 ± 1.5 g/dL, p<0.001). RBC count and red cell indices were also lower in the disease group, whereas RDW values were higher. HPLC analysis revealed significantly higher HbS levels in sickle cell disease patients.

Conclusion: Significant differences were observed in hematological parameters and hemoglobin fractions between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease patients. Combined evaluation using hematological indices and HPLC plays an important role in diagnosis and differentiation of sickle cell disorders.