Sickle Cell Anemia

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses the genetic condition of sickle cell anemia, a life-long condition that causes defective red blood cells, which form sickle cell shapes upon becoming deoxygenated, rather than maintaining the usual disc shape. The writer explains that the deformity in shape prevents the red cells from moving easily through the blood vessels as normal cells would. The sickle-shaped cells tend to form clumps in the blood vessels and prevent the healthy cells from getting through. The writer discusses symptoms and diagnosis of the disorder as well as a possible therapy that mainly focuses on relieving the symptoms associated with the condition.

Outline:
Introduction
Genetics
Mechanism
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Therapy

From the Paper:

"The main problems which will put the patient at risk in sickle cell disease are the sickle cell crises. These are an issue not only to the severe pain which they cause but also due to the damage which the blockage of blood vessels can cause when they occur in or around an organ. Pulmonary complications are a particular problem for sufferers of sickle cell disease, which are caused in this manner. Bacterial infections are also a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in sickle cell sufferers as the function of the spleen is usually either compromised or entirely absent. Splenic sequestration is one of the most serious complications of sickle cell disease, in which the spleen swells and causes a significant drop in hemoglobin levels."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Sickle Cell Anemia. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health. 2 November 2007. <http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Sca/SCA_Treatments.html>.
• Sickle Cell Information: Clinician Summary. 1997. Sickle Cell Information Centre. 2 November 2007. <http://www.scinfo.org/prod05.htm>.

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