Treatment Strategies

Sickle-cell anemia was the first disease to have its genetic cause identified, in the 1950s — a milestone in human genetics. Yet today, there’s just one FDA-approved drug, hydroxyurea, developed 20 years ago.

Chronic Red Blood Cell Transfusions. Chronic red blood cell transfusions are used as a treatment for various complications of sickle cell disease. Transfusions are the major treatment for cerebrovascular accidents (stroke) in children with sickle cell disease. With chronic transfusions, blood is given every three to four weeks. Complications of chronic red blood cell transfusions include iron overload, infection, antibody formation, and transfusion reactions.

Hydroxyurea. All infants are born with fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in their blood cells; however, soon after birth the amount of HbF rapidly decreases. Hydroxyurea is a medication taken by mouth once a day to help increase the body’s production of HbF, thereby reducing sickling and many of the major complications of sickle cell disease. 

Bone Marrow Transplantation. Bone marrow (or stem cell) transplantation is the only cure for sickle cell disease. The cure was first performed successfully in 1983, when a St. Jude patient with leukemia and sickle cell disease received a bone marrow transplant. The procedure cured both diseases.  Red blood cells are made in the bone marrow. In a person with sickle cell disease, the bone marrow produces hemoglobin S instead of hemoglobin A. During a transplant, the patient’s bone marrow is replaced with marrow from a person who does not have sickle cell disease. Even though bone marrow transplant is a cure for sickle cell disease, its use is limited because of the difficulty in finding a matched donor, and the complications associated with transplant.

Please click on the links below for information.

Blood Stem-Cell Transplant Regimen Reverses Sickle Cell Disease in Adults

Bone Marrow (stem cell) Transplant for Sickle Cell Disease

Hydroxyurea for Sickle Cell Disease

The Management and Therapy of Sickle Cell Disease

*The SCDFC site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided through this site should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.