The Pathophysiology of Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is best known as an inherited hemolytic disorder of defective hemoglobin that distorts red blood cell morphology, function and lifespan. It is less well known as a disease that targets the microvasculature, characterized by increased expression of cell adhesion molecules, enhanced production of reactive oxygen species, abnormal blood cell-endothelial cell interactions in postcapillary venules and altered vasomotor responses in arterioles. These microvascular responses are crucial to the initiation and progression of vasoocclusive crises, the diseases critical pathophysiological event that leads to pain crises, organ injury and early mortality. This work considers sickle cell disease vascular pathology in terms of the cellular, molecular and biochemical players that participate in the evolution, progression and resolution of vasoocclusive crises. The work provides a comprehensive overview of the complex pathophysiology of sickle cell disease and is an ideal reference source for professionals in the medical and scientific community.