Sickle cell anemia, or drepanocytosis, is the form of anemia that can lead to lung complications. In such cases, a relatively common chromosomal mutation is responsible for the production of a particular hemoglobin molecule called “hemoglobin S.” [2]
Not only does hemoglobin S decrease the amount of hemoglobin available to carry oxygen (anemia), but it also has the property of deforming red blood cells into a sickle shape (sickle cells or drepanocytes). These abnormally shaped red blood cells can then accumulate in small blood vessels and block circulation. In the lungs, this phenomenon is associated not only with increased asthma and sleep apnea attacks in younger individuals, but also with the development of obstructive lung disease in a small percentage of older patients. [3]