Sickle Cell Trait
Sickle cell trait (sometimes referred to as heterozygous sickle cell anemia) is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells. Individuals who have the trait carry one copy of the gene that causes sickle cell anemia and one normal copy of the gene. People with the trait usually do not experience any symptoms and live a normal life. However, people with sickle cell trait are more likely to develop complications from dehydration and exercise, and may be at increased risk for blood clots. Sickle cell trait can be detected through a simple blood test and is important to know, since it can be passed to a child if one or both parents carry the gene. Treatment is generally not required, but may include managing symptoms and avoiding dehydration or overexertion.
← International Journal of Blood Transfusion