Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment

What is Sickle Cell Anemia?

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited red blood cell disorder. Normal red blood cells are round and flow easily through blood vessels. In this disease, cells become sickle- or crescent-shaped, making them rigid and sticky. These abnormally shaped cells hinder smooth blood flow, reducing oxygen supply throughout the body.

The condition is inherited when a person receives two abnormal hemoglobin genes—one from each parent. The disorder is recessive and may not show symptoms in carriers (parents), but becomes active in offspring.

Types of Sickle Cell Diseases

Hemoglobin SS (sickle cell anemia)
Hemoglobin SC
Hemoglobin SB? thalassemia
Hemoglobin SB? thalassemia
Hemoglobin SD
Hemoglobin SE

Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear after 5–6 months of age. Early and later symptoms include:

Jaundice (yellowing of eyes)
Swelling of hands and feet
Fatigue, weakness, and anemia
Delayed growth
Frequent infections
Pain episodes (pain crises)
Damage to organs like spleen, kidneys, eyes, heart, and brain

Diagnosis

Blood Tests

Hemoglobin electrophoresis: Detects presence of mutated hemoglobin
Newborn screening: Identifies abnormal hemoglobin shortly after birth
Prenatal testing: Amniotic fluid or placental tissue tested between weeks 8–10 of pregnancy

Treatment Options

Medications

Hydroxyurea (Droxia, Hydrea): Reduces frequency of crises and hospitalizations
L-glutamine (Endari): Decreases pain episodes
Crizanlizumab (Adakveo): IV therapy for pain crises
Voxelotor (Oxbryta): Treats anemia by improving hemoglobin levels
Pain relievers: Narcotics for severe pain during crises

Blood Transfusion

Increases number of healthy red blood cells
Reduces complications like anemia, stroke, and pain

Stem Cell / Bone Marrow Transplant

Only known cure for sickle cell anemia
Involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a matched donor (often a close relative)
Requires hospitalization and immunosuppressive therapy to prevent rejection

Accredited Hospitals

India has many JCI and NABH-accredited hospitals offering comprehensive pre-op, surgery, and post-op care. Patients can expect personalized treatment, attention, and rehabilitation services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can sickle cell anemia be detected in a fetus?
A: Yes. Amniotic fluid or placental tissue testing during early pregnancy can detect it.

Q: How long do people live with this disease?
A: Life expectancy is ~42 years for males and ~48 years for females (average). It varies with treatment quality.

Q: Is it a common genetic disorder?
A: Yes, especially among African, Arabian, and Indian descent.

Q: Can sickle cell trait become full-blown disease?
A: No, but it can be passed to children.

Q: What complications may arise with the trait?
A: Blood in urine, eye pressure changes, eye injuries.