“Hmmm…,” Mrs. Williams mused. “That Science Newsette article was interesting. Now I understand better what Dr. Kernodle was talking about….”
Mrs. Williams returned to her weekend chores, which included caring for her daughter, Tazswana.
Tazswana Williams was born a healthy baby girl on August 1, 2004. Labor and delivery proceeded without complication and she was perfect—all 10 fingers and toes. To her parents she was the most beautiful creature they had set their eyes on—their first baby girl. On her first birthday, Tazswana was a vivacious yet petite toddler who loved to sneak up on her Mom and say “Boo!” to which her mom would reply, “Peek-a-boo!” This would send Tazswana into a gleeful, waddling run to the nearest hiding place.
However, at 13 months of age, Tazswana had stopped running around. Coincidently, she began to look pale and lost her appetite. Concerned, her mother took Tazswana to the family pediatrician.
After a routine exam, Dr. Vivian Kernodle reassured Mrs. Williams. “According to the growth chart, her weight and length are both in the 25th percentile, which is still just within the normal range. Additionally, you and Mr. Williams are petite, so Tazswana comes by it naturally. She is exhibiting symptoms that are consistent with a recent flu bug that’s been going around. No need to be concerned at this point. If her appetite and color don’t return by late next week, give us a call.”
“O.K., thank you doctor,” responded Mrs. Williams.
After a week, Tazswana’s symptoms had not subsided. Mrs. Williams called the doctor’s office Friday and made another appointment for the following Monday. During Tazswana’s second examination, Dr. Kernodle expressed concern. “Mrs. Williams, Tazswana’s spleen seems slightly enlarged. This typically indicates that it is working extra hard to produce immune cells to fight off infections. However, it could be an indication of other conditions involving the blood stream. I would like to go ahead and draw some of Tazswana’s blood and yours to run a few tests. Would you agree to that?”
Mrs. William’s replied, “I’d be glad to give it, if it will help my baby, but why do you need my blood?”
“Since you and your family have sub-Saharan African ancestry, I just want to check your blood to see if what is causing Tazswana’s listlessness could be an inherited blood disorder.”
“Well, certainly doctor… do you want my blood now?”
“Yes, I’ll just walk you down to the phlebotomist’s office now.”
Examine Handout 4 showing the blood test results and discuss and answer the questions on the handout.
Originally published at http://www.sciencecases.org/tazswana/tazswana3.asp
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