Final answer:
Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder causing the production of abnormal hemoglobin S, which leads to red blood cells acquiring a sickle shape and causing reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
A disease affecting the production of spectrin, a RBC (red blood cell) cytoskeletal protein, leads to a characteristic change in the shape of erythrocytes or red blood cells. This disease is known as sickle cell anemia, which is a genetic disorder. In sickle cell anemia, there is a production of an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S, which causes reduced oxygen perfusion into the blood. Consequently, red blood cells assume a sickle (crescent) shape, especially at low oxygen concentrations. These deformed cells can become lodged in narrow capillaries, obstructing blood flow and leading to serious health issues, including joint pain, slowed growth, blindness, and even strokes. This genetic condition is prevalent particularly among individuals of African descent.