Hematological disorder discussion assignments

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders in which the hemoglobin blood cells are hard and sticky and resemble a “C” shape. These abnormal hemoglobin red blood cells adhere to the blood vessel and block the blood flow resulting in vaso-occlusive events. A vaso-occlusive event results in an increase in tissue hypoxia and more sickle cell formation that worsens the patient’s condition. Sickle cell disease can result in chronic anemia, pain, organ damage, increased risk for infection, and death. For a baby to be born with sickle cell anemia, both parents must carry a sickle cell gene. In the United States, sickle cell anemia most commonly affects black people. Acute exacerbations (crises) occur intermittently, often for no known reason. In some cases, crisis appears to be precipitated by : Fever Viral infection Local trauma Vaso-occlusive crisis (pain crisis) is the most common type; it is caused by ischemia, tissue hypoxia, and infarction, typically of the bones, but also of the spleen, lungs, or kidneys. Diagnosis: depends on the patient’s age: In the United States, this blood test is part of routine newborn screening. In adults, a blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm. In young children and babies, the blood sample is usually collected from a finger or heel. If the child carries the sickle cell gene, a referral to a genetic counselor would be appropriate. Tests include: DNA testing (prenatal) Peripheral smear Hemoglobin electrophoresis Treatment Manageme