Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) is the most common genetic blood disorder. This condition is also called HbS disease, SCD, or Sickle Cell Disease. This condition causes the red blood cells to be sickle-shaped, which leads to pain in the body and damage to the organs and body systems.
The common symptoms of Sickle Cell Trait are:
Those who have Sickle Cell trait usually start showing symptoms at about 5 months of age. Red blood cells should survive for 120 days, but those with Sickle Cell trait have red blood cells that die in about 10-20 days. Between the reduced lifespan of the red blood cells and their incorrect shape, patients can suffer from a wide array of different health challenges.
Sickle Cell trait is caused by a defect that is found on chromosome 11. This is what causes defects in the shape and behaviour of the red blood cells in the body. Both parents need to have sickle cell trait in order to pass this condition on to their children. If both parents carry this defective gene, children have a 1 in 4 chance of getting the Sickle Cell trait.
The risk factor for getting this condition is to have parents who carry the gene for the Sickle Cell trait.
A blood test can check for the defective haemoglobin that is found in those that have Sickle Cell disease. This test can be done on newborns as well as adults. An ultrasound can be done as well to check for the risk of stroke. This is one of the main complications that can threaten the health of patients with Sickle Cell trait. Patients can also submit to genetic testing to see if they carry the genes for the Sickle Cell trait.
Parents who are worried about their children having Sickle Cell trait can have genetic testing done to see if they carry the genes that cause the condition. There is no way to prevent this condition if parents are not aware that they are carriers of the Sickle Cell trait before they have children.
Treatment for this condition is aimed at avoiding pain crises and at preventing complications associated with the disorder. Blood transfusions are required on a regular basis for most patients who suffer from Sickle Cell Trait.
Hydroxyurea is commonly given to patients with Sickle Cell trait to help control pain and to improve anaemia. L-glutamine powder and crizanlizumab can also help manage the symptoms of Sickle Cell trait. Pain relievers can also be given to those who are suffering from a pain crisis.
Teenagers and children might be able to get a stem cell transplant, which can actually cure the condition.