What is sickle cell anemia?

Sickle cell anemia is a hemolytic anemia caused by abnormal molecular structure of hemoglobin, also known as hemoglobin S disease, which is mainly seen in black patients. Under hypoxia, hemoglobin S interacts between molecules and becomes a spiral multimer with very low solubility, distorting red blood cells into the shape of a sickle, hence the name sickle cell anemia. Because of the poor deformability of these cells, within the microcirculation, they are prone to stasis and destruction of hemolytic anemia occurs. Patients usually have jaundice, anemia and enlargement of the liver and spleen within 3-4 months of birth and have poor development. Organ dysfunction due to obstruction of microcirculation by sickle-shaped cells is manifested by abdominal pain, shortness of breath, anterior renal area pain and hematuria. There is no specific treatment for sickle cell anemia. Infection prevention and prevention of hypoxia are usually required. Oxygen supply, rehydration and blood transfusion treatment can be given during episodes of hemolysis.