Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cells. The cells become sickle-shaped (or crescent) instead of the normal disc shape. This changes the way they move through blood vessels and can block circulation. Normal hemoglobin carries oxygen throughout the body, while sickle cell hemoglobin does not. This can lead to a number of health problems. Understanding the difference between sickle cell hemoglobin and normal hemoglobin is important in order to provide appropriate treatment.
What is Sickle Cell Hemoglobin?
Sickle cell hemoglobin is an abnormal type of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Sickle cell hemoglobin can cause red blood cells to become stiff and Sickle-shaped, which can block blood flow and cause pain.
- Sickle cell hemoglobin is most common in people of African descent, but it can also occur in other racial groups. People with sickle cell disease inherit two abnormal copies of the gene for hemoglobin, one from each parent.
- People with only one copy of the sickle cell gene are known as carriers and usually do not have any symptoms. However, carriers can pass the gene on to their children.
- Sickle cell disease is a serious condition that can lead to complications such as strokes, infections, and organ damage. There is no cure for sickle cell disease, but treatment can help to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
What is Normal Hemoglobin?
Normal hemoglobin is the most common type of hemoglobin, accounting for more than 95% of all cases. It is made up of two alpha chains and two beta chains, and it has a molecular weight of approximately 64 kDa. Normal hemoglobin is capable of binding oxygen and transporting it to tissues throughout the body.
In addition, normal hemoglobin helps to protect red blood cells from oxidative damage. Normal hemoglobin is produced in the bone marrow and typically has a lifespan of 120 days. After 120 days, the protein begins to break down and is replaced by new protein. Normal hemoglobin levels can vary from person to person, but they are typically between 14 and 18 g/dL.
Difference between Sickle Cell Hemoglobin and Normal Hemoglobin
Sickle cell hemoglobin (HbS) and normal hemoglobin (HbA) differ in their structure and function. HbS is formed when there is a single amino acid change in the beta globin chain of hemoglobin. This Sickle Cell Hemoglobin mutation results in decreased oxygen affinity, which means that HbS will not bind to oxygen as tightly as HbA.
This can lead to sickling of the red blood cells when they are exposed to low oxygen conditions. Sickling decreases the life span of red blood cells and can cause obstruction of small blood vessels, which can lead to pain, organ damage, and even death. Although there is no cure for Sickle Cell Disease, early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent some of the complications associated with the condition.
Conclusion
Sickle Cell Hemoglobin and Normal Hemoglobin are two different types of hemoglobin. Sickle Cell Hemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin that is found in people who have sickle cell anemia. Normal Hemoglobin is the type of hemoglobin that is found in people who do not have sickle cell anemia.
