Microscopic photo of Sickle cells, crescent-shaped erythrocytes (red blood cells) that result from a change in the amino acid sequence of the cells' hemoglobin. © Eye of Science/Science Source
Sickle Cell Patient in Clinic
Sickle cell disease clinic. A nurse connecting tubes to a patient's arm in preparation for a red blood cell exchange. © Life in View/Science Source
Genetics of Sickle Cell Disease
An illustration showing chromosome 11, a normal blood cell, and a sickle cell. The mutated hemoglobin can be seen in the cutaway. © Monica Schroeder/Science Source
3D Illustration of Blood Clot
Sickle cells cannot move through small blood vessels as easily as normal cells, and so can cause blockages. © Tim Vernon/Science Source
Link Between Sickle Cell and Strokes
Sickle cell patients are more prone to stroke due to increased clotting from misshapen red blood cells, also showing increased frequency. © Sue Seif/Science Source