Final answer:
Sickle-cell anemia can result in kidney pathologies due to the blockage of blood vessels by sickle-shaped red blood cells, which can lead to complications such as kidney failure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sickle-cell anemia can trigger kidney pathologies due to the sickle-shaped red blood cells that clog tiny blood vessels, causing pain and damaging organs and joints, including the kidneys. This abnormal shape is a result of a mutation in the hemoglobin gene, causing hemoglobin S to be produced, which delivers less oxygen to tissues. When these cells become lodged in narrow capillaries, they block blood flow, leading to complications such as anemia, painful joints, and potentially kidney failure. Sickle cell anemia is particularly found in individuals of African descent. The only treatment for severe kidney pathologies like end-stage kidney disease may involve kidney transplantation or hemodialysis.