EFFECTS OF SICKLE CELL ANEMIA ON THE MUSCLE/SKELETAL SYSTEM
There is one main effect of sickle cell anemia on the muscular system. It is a process called necrosis. Necrosis is when a part of the body does not get enough oxygen and begins to slowly die off, causing permanent tissue damage. Necrosis in muscles causes severe pain and crises. Necrosis is more common in patients of SCA because the sickled blood shape makes it easier for blood to clot, and hard for the blood to carry oxygen. This means that less blood goes in and out of the muscles, and less oxygen gets to the muscles. This results in necrosis, fatigue, and crises. (2,22)
This image shows muscles affected by necrosis. The black cells are dead cells muscle cells that have died due to lack of oxygen.
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Sickle Cell Anemia starts at the bone marrow. Since bone marrow is the location of red blood cell production, this is where all of the sickle cells are created. Sickle Cell Anemia does not really harmful effects to the bones.
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|Brian Oh|Biology 2|Final Project|5/30/2013|