[Campbell Biology P.984] A patient is diagnosed with sickle-cell disease. Based on the infor... | Practice Question

A patient is diagnosed with sickle-cell disease. Based on the information provided, which of the following is a direct consequence of the disease's effect on erythrocytes?

  • A: Enhanced oxygen delivery to tissues due to increased erythrocyte flexibility.
  • B: Reduced lifespan of red blood cells, leading to a decrease in the number of cells available for oxygen transport.
  • C: Improved blood flow in capillaries and arterioles, preventing pain.
  • D: Increased hemoglobin aggregation which helps in preventing organ swelling.

Explanation

The text states that 'The average life span of a sickled erythrocyte is only 20 days—one-sixth that of a normal erythrocyte. The rate of erythrocyte loss outstrips their production rate.' This directly leads to a reduced number of red blood cells available for oxygen transport.