Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle Cell Anemia (pronounced: /ˈsɪkəl sɛl əˈniːmiə/) is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cells. The term "sickle cell" comes from the shape of the affected red blood cells, which resemble a farm tool known as a sickle. The term "anemia" refers to a condition in which the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues.

Etymology

The term "sickle cell anemia" was first used in 1910 by American physician James B. Herrick, who observed the irregularly shaped cells in a patient of African descent. The term "anemia" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "ἀναιμία" (anaimia), which means "lack of blood".

Symptoms

Symptoms of sickle cell anemia can vary widely and may include anemia, episodes of pain, frequent infections, and delayed growth or puberty. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person and can change over time.

Causes

Sickle cell anemia is caused by a mutation in the HBB gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called beta-globin. Beta-globin is a component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Treatment

Treatment for sickle cell anemia typically involves managing symptoms and preventing complications. This may include medications, blood transfusions, and in some cases, a bone marrow transplant.

Related Terms

• Hemoglobin
• Red blood cells
• Genetic disorder
• Bone marrow transplant
• Anemia

See Also

• Thalassemia
• Hemolytic anemia
• Iron deficiency anemia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Sickle Cell Anemia
• Wikipedia's article - Sickle Cell Anemia

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