Sickle Cell Disease Flashcards
What is sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders.
What causes sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that tells the body to make hemoglobin.
True or False: Sickle cell disease is more common in people of African descent.
True
What is the main symptom of sickle cell disease?
Painful episodes called crises.
What is the name of the abnormal hemoglobin in sickle cell disease?
Hemoglobin S
What shape do red blood cells take in sickle cell disease?
Sickle-shaped or crescent-shaped
What is the treatment for sickle cell disease?
There is no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and complications.
What is the most common type of sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell anemia
Fill in the blank: Sickle cell disease affects the _________ of red blood cells.
Shape
What is the average life expectancy for someone with sickle cell disease?
Around 40-60 years
What is the best way to prevent complications in sickle cell disease?
Regular medical check-ups and screenings
True or False: Sickle cell disease is contagious.
False
What is the name of the test used to diagnose sickle cell disease?
Hemoglobin electrophoresis
What is the main risk factor for sickle cell disease?
Having a family history of the condition
What is the primary function of hemoglobin in the body?
To carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body
What is the name of the gene that is mutated in sickle cell disease?
HBB gene
True or False: Sickle cell disease can be cured with a bone marrow transplant.
True
What is the term for a sudden worsening of symptoms in sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell crisis
What is the name of the protein that causes red blood cells to sickle in sickle cell disease?
Hemoglobin S
Fill in the blank: Sickle cell disease can cause damage to various ________ in the body.
Organs
What is the most common complication of sickle cell disease?
Painful vaso-occlusive crises
True or False: Sickle cell disease only affects red blood cells.
False
What is the name of the medication used to reduce the frequency of painful crises in sickle cell disease?
Hydroxyurea
What is the term for the process of replacing damaged blood cells with healthy ones in sickle cell disease?
Bone marrow transplant
