Dithionite Tube Test - A Rapid, Inexpensive Technique for the Detection of Hemoglobin S and Non-S Sickling Hemoglobin

An extensive field trial of the dithionite and the urea-dithionite tube tests indicates that the molecular theories of this method are supported by actual clinical tests. It is demonstrated that blood specimens appropriately collected at one site can be mailed at ambient temperatures for subsequent processing at a geographically remote laboratory without adverse effect on the accuracy or reliability of the test. The test, performed in 5 minutes, has a reagent cost of about 2 cents per determination. It is of considerable interest that these testing techniques will detect not only hemoglobins S and C (Harlem), a structural variant of S, but other non-S sickling hemoglobins such as Bart's, C (Georgetown), and perhaps Alexandra and rare hemoglobinopathies of low solubility such as Kings County and Stanleyville II. The dithionite and urea-dithionite tests, however, will provide rapid, accurate, reliable, and inexpensive screening for hemoglobin S. (Author)