Sickle Cell Anemia, Essay Example

Sickle cell anemia is an abnormality found in hemoglobin, a protein found inside red blood cells which delivers oxygen throughout the body. It is genetic in nature and inherited from both mother and father. Red blood cells, which are usually shaped like a disc become sickle or crescent shaped, hence the name. People from tropical, sub-tropical and sub-saharan regions are more likely to have the disease (Wellems et. al. 2496).

Symptoms of sickle cell anemia often start as early as infancy, appearing at about 4 months. Most patients experience painful episodes, referred to as crises and lasting for hours to days at a time (Chiang & Frenette 7782). The pain from these crises is often felt on the bones of the back, chest and long bones. The intensity, duration and frequency of these crises can also vary from patient to patient and can necessitate admission to an acute care facility. Other symptoms associated with sickle cell anemia include fatigue, tachycardia, shortness of breath, paleness and jaundice or yellowing of the eyes and skin. Meanwhile, abdominal pain is largely experienced by younger children. The sickle-shaped cells have less oxygen carrying capacity and they can get trapped more easily within blood vessels, causing blockages and interrupting blood flow. These can result to symptoms such as poor eyesight, blindness, confusion and ulcers, particularly on the lower legs. Growth retardation, delayed sexual development and less than normal body weight is also characteristic findings.

Laboratory tests are crucial in diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. The Hgb S test is often ordered, wherein a blood sample is obtained to check the presence of hemoglobin S. A positive result will necessitate further tests to determine the number of sickle cell genes and differentiate between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease. Blood sample is further examined under a microscope to verify significant amount of sickle cells to confirm the diagnosis. Other pertinent laboratory tests include a complete blood count, serum creatinine, serum potassium and blood oxygen levels and these are regularly monitored throughout the course of the disease (Clark & Higgins 1284).

Works Cited

Chiang, EY & Frenette, PS. Sickle cell vaso-occlusion. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. Oct 2005; 19(5):771-84,

Clarke, GM & Higgins, TN. Laboratory investigation of hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias: review and update. Clin. Chem. August 2000 46 (8 Pt 2): 1284–90.

Wellems, TE, Hayton, K, & Fairhurst, RM. The impact of malaria parasitism: from corpuscles to communities. J. Clin. Invest. September 2009; 119 (9): 2496–505.