Summary

• Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder.
• People with sickle cell disease develop sickle cell anaemia.
• Sickle cell anaemia causes your red blood cells to be sickle shaped.
• Ongoing treatment helps you manage pain and reduces your chances of infection.

These key facts are from healthdirect.gov.au (accessed 29 Jan 2025). Visit the healthdirect website for more information about sickle cell anaemia.

Relevant Tests

If your doctor suspects you have sickle cell anaemia, they may request one or more tests.

If you are diagnosed with sickle cell anaemia, some of these tests will be used to monitor and manage your condition.

Find information about specific tests:

• Sickle cell