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sickle cell anemia
noun
- a chronic hereditary blood disease, occurring primarily among Africans or persons of African descent, in which abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped and nonfunctional, characterized by enlarged spleen, chronic anemia, lethargy, weakness, joint pain, and blood clot formation.
sickle cell anemia
/ sĭk′əl /
- A hereditary disease characterized by red blood cells that are sickle-shaped instead of round because of an abnormality in their hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood. Because of their shape, the cells can cause blockage of small blood vessels in the organs and bones, reducing the amount of available oxygen.
sickle cell anemia
- A hereditary form of anemia in which the red blood cells become sickle-shaped (shaped like a crescent) and less able to carry oxygen .
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Word History and Origins
Origin of sickle cell anemia1
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Example Sentences
Researchers have shown its potential for reversing blindness and sickle cell anemia, and to treat genetic diseases in animals.
In the case of sickle cell anemia, for example, where red blood cells become misshapen and fail to function properly, doctors will remove cells called hematopoietic stem cells, which will eventually turn into red blood cells and other blood cells.
Misfolded proteins can be devastating, causing health problems from sickle cell anemia to cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Early CRISPR trials have focused on hereditary blindness and diseases of the blood, including cancer, sickle cell anemia, and beta thalassemia.
Inherited blood disorders such as sickle-cell anemia can also lead to anemia.
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