MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Normally, red blood cells are disc-shaped and flexible enough to move easily through the blood vessels. If you have sickle cell disease, your red blood cells are crescent-or “sickle”-shaped. These cells do not bend or move easily and can block blood flow to the rest of your body.

Detailed explanation-2: -Cells with sickle cell hemoglobin are stiff and sticky. When they lose their oxygen, they form into the shape of a sickle or crescent, like the letter C.

Detailed explanation-3: -Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary condition that causes some red blood cells to distort into rigid crescent moon shapes, and take on a consistency like cream cheese when oxygen is released. The affected cells can clog up blood vessels preventing adequate blood flow.

Detailed explanation-4: -The sickle-shaped cells cannot deliver oxygen to the rest of the body. This can cause attacks of sudden severe pain, called pain crises. These pain crises can occur without warning, and a person who has them often needs to go to the hospital for effective treatment.