Anemia - sickle cell; Hemoglobin SS disease (Hb SS); Sickle cell disease

The goal of treatment is to manage and control symptoms, and to limit the number of crises.

Patients with sickle cell disease need ongoing treatment, even when they are not having a painful crisis.

Folic acid supplements should be taken. Folic acid is needed to make red blood cells.

Treatment for a sickle cell crisis includes:

• Blood transfusions (may also be given regularly to prevent stroke)
• Pain medicines
• Plenty of fluids

Other treatments for sickle cell anemia may include:

• Hydroxyurea (Hydrea), a medicine that may help reduce the number of pain episodes (including chest pain and difficulty breathing) in some people
• Antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections, which are common in children with sickle cell disease

Treatments for complications of sickle cell anemia may include:

• Kidney dialysis or kidney transplant for kidney disease
• Drug rehabilitation and counseling for psychological complications
• Gallbladder removal in those with gallstone disease
• Hip replacement for avascular necrosis of the hip
• Treatments, including surgery, for persistent, painful erections (priapism)
• Surgery for eye problems
• Wound care, zinc oxide, or surgery for leg ulcers

Bone marrow or stem cell transplants can cure sickle cell anemia. However, they are current not an option for most patients. Sickle cell anemia patients are often unable to find well-matched donors.

Images

Red blood cells, normal

Formed elements of blood

Red blood cells, sickle cell

Red blood cells, multiple sickle cells

Blood cells

Red blood cells, sickle and pappenheimer

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Review Date: 02/28/2011
Reviewed By: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)