Sickle cell disease is a group of disorders that affects hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. People with this disorder have atypical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape.

Signs and symptoms of sickle cell disease usually begin in early childhood. Characteristic features of this disorder include a low number of red blood cells (anemia), repeated infections, and periodic episodes of pain. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms, while others are frequently hospitalized for more serious complications.

Source: http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/sickle-cell-disease

Please cite:
Information exploration system for sickle cell disease and repurposing of hydroxyfasudil. Essack M, Radovanovic A, Bajic VB. PLoS One. 2013 Jun 10;8(6):e65190. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0065190.