RBC Fragility Test

RBC Fragility (Test Osmotic Fragility Test) is a blood test to detect whether red blood cells are more likely to break down causing conditions called hereditary spherocytosis and thalassemia. Hereditary spherocytosis makes red blood cells more fragile than normal. With thalassemia, some red blood cells are more fragile than normal, but more of them are less fragile than normal.

But this test is highly risky, since veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another, and from one side of the body to the other, obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

There are no special preparations required for this test. It’s a simple blood test, aka venipuncture. It is advisable that you should either wear a sleeveless or a half-sleeve shirt or wear a shirt with full- sleeves that can easily be rolled-up till elbow so that the doctor can take a sample without any hindrance. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing Rbc Osmolity Fragility Test Blood. Your doctor, depending on your condition, will give specific instructions.

This test will help you to know that: If you have increased osmotic fragility. This may indicate: Hereditary spherocytosis, Hemoglobin C disease, Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Transfusion acquired hemolytic anemia, Chemical toxicity, Thermal burns

If you have decreased osmotic fragility. This may indicate: Anemia, Thalassemia major and minor, Hemoglobin C disease, Polycythemia Vera, Acute and sub-acute necrosis of the liver, Obstructive jaundice

If your osmotic fragility test is positive, the next step is to test whether you are actively anemic.

A blood sample is needed directly from you. 5 mL whole blood collected in a sodium heparin (green-top) tube.

• An alcohol pad is used to clean the skin.
• A needle is then injected through the part of rinsed skin into to your vein; specifically in the one that can be seen from the skin.
• The blood is dragged out from the needle by a nozzle, saved in a vessel and sealed with your name.
• This sample is carried to the research laboratory for examination where red blood cells are tested with a solution that makes them swell. This determines how fragile they are. (The skin around the puncture may be bruised or tender. This is normal. Applying ice to the area can reduce bruising and ease discomfort.)