Sickle Cell Disease And Thalassaemia Flashcards
1
Q
Who are the main people it affects?
A
African Afro-Caribbean Also Asia Middle East Mediterranean
2
Q
How many people have sickle cell disease in the UK?
A
13000
3
Q
How many people have beta thalassaemia major?
A
700
4
Q
How is it diagnosed?
A
Blood spot test
Cord blood sampling
Sample of amniotic fluid (6/8 weeks preg)
Parent genetics and screening
Admission for acute/chronic enlarged liver or spleen
5
Q
What are the signs and symptoms of a sickle cell crisis?
A
Severe pain especially at the joints Swelling of joints Difficulty in breathing Pallor Fever Weakness Tiredness
6
Q
What is sickle cell disease and thalassaemia?
A
These are 2 types of genetic, inherited blood disorders that are caused by mutation in a blood protein called haemoglobin.
Its presence is determined at conception when a person gets their genes from their parents
It cannot be caught, acquired or otherwise transmitted
