Final answer:
Kidney infarcts in sickle cell anemia result from blockages caused by sickled red blood cells, leading to tissue oxygen deprivation and potential kidney failure due to hemoglobin overload.
Step-by-step explanation:
Kidney infarcts due to sickled RBCs are a serious complication of sickle cell anemia, which is a genetic disorder characterized by the production of abnormal hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S. This abnormal hemoglobin results in red blood cells assuming a sickle, or crescent shape, making them rigid and prone to becoming lodged in narrow capillaries. This blockage can lead to tissue damage due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. In addition to affecting joints and organs, hemolysis, or breakdown of these sickled cells, occurs. The released hemoglobin can overload the kidneys, leading to potential kidney failure.
Sickle cell anemia is particularly prevalent among individuals of African descent. The abnormally shaped cells do not carry oxygen efficiently, and their tendency to clump in capillaries can cause organ damage, pain, and other severe health issues. The hemoglobin that's released during hemolysis can damage the kidney tubules, a condition that could also be exacerbated by blood transfusion with mismatched types or during hemolytic disease of the newborn.