Final answer:
Sickle-cell anemia is a genetic disorder that leads to red blood cells taking on a sickle shape due to abnormal hemoglobin, which causes them to become lodged in vessels, leading to anemia and potential spleen enlargement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sickle-cell anemia is a genetic disorder that affects the shape and function of erythrocytes (red blood cells). It results from an abnormal type of hemoglobin, known as hemoglobin S (HbS), which leads to red blood cells assuming a distinctive sickle or crescent shape. This shape alteration specially occurs at low oxygen concentrations and makes the cells inflexible and prone to getting stuck in narrow blood vessels, consequently blocking blood flow and leading to various complications including severe anemia and organ damage, such as spleen enlargement.
An enlarged spleen, also known as splenomegaly, is common in individuals with sickle cell anemia due to the accumulation and destruction of sickle-shaped cells within this organ. This process can lead to anemia, which manifests as physical exertion, weakness, shortness of breath, and can be associated with other conditions such as leukemia and heart murmurs. In severe cases, the extensive destruction of red blood cells leads to a condition called hydrops, which is the accumulation of fluids in body cavities and can be fatal in newborns.