Why do people with Sickle Cell Anaemia suffer from leg ulcers?
Sickle cell anemia is caused by an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S. Hemoglobin is a protein inside red blood cells that carries oxygen. Hemoglobin S, however, distorts the red blood cells’ shape. The fragile, sickle-shaped cells deliver less oxygen to the body’s tissues, and can break into pieces that disrupt blood flow. Hemolytic crisis occurs when damaged red blood cells break down. Hence sickle cell anemia patients suffer from hemolytic anemia. Leg ulcers This usually occurs on the lower part of the leg. They happen more often in males than in females and usually appear from 10 through 50 years of age. The cause of leg ulcers is unclear.
