What is the treatment for sickle cell disease?
The life span of a patient with sickle cell disease has increased significantly to over 50 years of age. Common causes of death include infections, clots or blockages of blood vessels, and kidney failure. There is no cure for sickle cell disease. Treatment is based on the symptoms existing at the time of a ‘sickling-crisis’. This may include blood transfusions, antibiotics, on-going fluid intake through intravenous (IV) solutions and/or drinking of fluids, and medication to reduce pain. Red blood cell exchange has been used in sickle cell crisis. More recently, bone marrow transplants have been shown to be effective.
