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Sickled red blood cells

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Inside view of red blood cells in blood vessel, with close-up of normal and sickled red blood cells

People with sickle cell disease, an inherited condition, have red blood cells that can change form. The red blood cells can change from round into a "sickle" or crescent shape.

Current as ofMay 6, 2018

Author: Healthwise Staff
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Martin H. Steinberg, MD - Hematology

Is it an emergency?

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