Genotype AS refers to individuals who are homozygous for the sickle cell gene, meaning they have inherited two copies of the gene, one from each parent. This genotype causes the individual to have sickle cell anemia, which is a serious, inherited blood disorder that affects the red blood cells.
The most common symptoms of sickle cell anemia include:
Anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and pallor
Painful episodes (sickle cell crisis), which can occur in various parts of the body, including the bones, chest, and abdomen
Damage to organs and tissues due to blockages in blood vessels caused by sickle-shaped cells
Increased risk of infections due to a weakened immune system
Delayed growth and puberty
Jaundice and splenomegaly (enlarged spleen)
Sickle cell crisis is the most common complication of sickle cell anemia. These episodes can be triggered by various factors, such as infection, dehydration, and high altitude. They can cause severe pain and can last for several days. The pain can be located in various parts of the body, including the bones, chest, and abdomen. In some cases, these crises can lead to hospitalization.
Sickle cell anemia can also cause damage to organs and tissues due to blockages in blood vessels caused by sickle-shaped cells. This can lead to various complications, such as stroke, lung damage, and kidney damage.
Individuals with sickle cell anemia also have an increased risk of infections due to a weakened immune system. This is because the sickle-shaped cells can block blood vessels and prevent white blood cells from reaching and fighting infections.
Sickle cell anemia can also cause delayed growth and puberty. This is because the sickle-shaped cells can block blood vessels and prevent the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to growing tissues and organs.
Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a common symptom of sickle cell anemia. This is caused by the accumulation of bilirubin, a waste product of red blood cells, in the blood.
Click here to know the symptoms of Genotype AA
Splenomegaly, or an enlarged spleen, is another common complication of sickle cell anemia. The spleen is responsible for removing old and damaged red blood cells from the bloodstream. In sickle cell anemia, the spleen becomes overworked and enlarged as it attempts to remove the sickle-shaped cells. This can lead to decreased function of the spleen, which can further increase the risk of infections.
In summary, individuals with genotype AS have sickle cell anemia, which is a serious, inherited blood disorder that affects the red blood cells. The most common symptoms of sickle cell anemia include anemia, painful episodes, damage to organs and tissues, increased risk of infections, delayed growth and puberty, jaundice and splenomegaly.
