Sodium metabisulfite is an inorganic compound often used as a disinfectant, antioxidant or preservative agent. Sodium metabisulfite is often used in the medical community to help test for a disease known as sickle cell anemia. This compound is added to a blood smear test, which can cause defunct cells to sickle, confirming a diagnosis of sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell anemia is a hemoglobin mutation that causes red blood cells to form a crescent shape. Sodium metabisulfite testing and sickle cell testing should be conducted by a medical professional.
Step 1
Know the symptoms of sickle cell anemia. According to the National Institutes of Health, symptoms usually do not occur until a child is at least 4 months old. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bone pain, delayed onset of adolescence, breathlessness, fever, fatigue, paleness, ulcer, jaundice and a rapid heart rate. Those with sickle cell anemia may experience several episodes per year or may only have an episode every couple of years.
Step 2
Have a blood test. Sickle cell tests are commonly ordered to screen newborns for the disease. Blood tests can also be performed on older individuals who did not have a sickle cell test at birth.
Step 3
Follow the instructions of your physician before your blood test. Sickle cell tests can include a sodium metabisulfate test, blood smear, iron studies and a complete blood clot. Your doctor may require that you fast or abstain from certain medications before your test.
Step 4
Wait for your results. Your doctor will call you within a few days with the results of your sickle cell tests.
Step 5
Plan a treatment method if diagnosed.Your doctor may recommend blood transfusions, pain medications, consuming plenty of fluids, folic acid supplements, antibiotics to prevent infection, counseling or surgery if sickle cell causes additional problems -- such as gallbladder or eye problems or avascular necrosis of the hip.
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