Drepanocytic Anaemia, also known as sickle cell anaemia, is a genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormal, crescent-shaped red blood cells (RBCs) that hinder their ability to transport oxygen effectively throughout the body. This condition is inherited when both parents carry a mutated form of the gene responsible for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in RBCs responsible for oxygen transport.
In drepanocytic anaemia, the abnormal RBC shape reduces their flexibility and causes them to become sticky and prone to clumping together, which can obstruct blood flow and lead to pain crises and organ damage. This condition primarily affects individuals of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian descent.
Common symptoms of drepanocytic anaemia include chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, pallor, delayed growth in children, jaundice, and recurring episodes of severe pain in the joints, chest, and abdomen. Individuals with this disorder are also more susceptible to infections and are at an increased risk of developing complications such as stroke, leg ulcers, and eye problems.
There is currently no cure for drepanocytic anaemia, but treatment aims to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. This may involve blood transfusions to increase the number of healthy RBCs, medications to alleviate pain and prevent complications, and vaccination to protect against infections. Additionally, lifelong monitoring and support from a healthcare team specializing in this disease are essential for managing and addressing the challenges associated with drepanocytic anaemia.
