Question

In sickle cell anaemia, the RBCs become half moon shaped due to ______________ deficiency.

• A. water
• B. carbon dioxide
• C. oxygen
• D. haemoglobin

Hint:

Sickling is reversible initially but becomes permanent after repeated episodes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding sickle cell anaemia.
Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic disorder caused by abnormal haemoglobin (HbS).
Step 2: Role of oxygen.
Under low oxygen conditions, HbS polymerizes, causing RBCs to deform into a sickle or half-moon shape.
Step 3: Effect on RBC shape.
Oxygen deficiency leads to reduced solubility of HbS, resulting in sickling of RBCs.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, RBCs become sickle-shaped due to oxygen deficiency.