Sickle Cell Disease in Children

Overview

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, the red blood cells in children with sickle cell disease become crescent or “sickle”-shaped. These abnormally shaped cells can block blood flow and lead to severe pain, organ damage, and other serious health problems. Early diagnosis and specialized care are crucial in managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life for children with SCD.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of sickle cell disease in children include:

Episodes of Pain (Crises): Sudden and severe pain, often in the chest, abdomen, or joints.
Fatigue: Constant tiredness due to anemia (low red blood cell count).
Swelling: Painful swelling of hands and feet.
Frequent Infections: Increased susceptibility to infections due to a weakened immune system.
Delayed Growth: Slower physical growth and delayed puberty.
Vision Problems: Damage to blood vessels in the eyes can cause vision issues.
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the breakdown of red blood cells.

Causes

Sickle cell disease is inherited from both parents. The condition occurs when a child inherits two sickle cell genes, one from each parent. A child who inherits only one sickle cell gene has sickle cell trait, which typically doesn’t cause symptoms but can be passed on to offspring.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing sickle cell disease in children involves:

Newborn Screening: In many places, newborns are routinely screened for sickle cell disease shortly after birth.
Blood Tests: Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a blood test that can identify the presence of sickle hemoglobin and confirm the diagnosis.
Genetic Testing: Testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of sickle cell disease.
Family History Review: Understanding the family’s genetic background can help in diagnosing and managing the condition.

Treatment Options

While there is no universal cure for sickle cell disease, various treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent complications:

Pain Management: Medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed opioids, can help manage pain during sickle cell crises.
Hydroxyurea: This medication can reduce the frequency of pain episodes and the need for blood transfusions.
Blood Transfusions: Regular transfusions may be necessary to treat anemia and prevent stroke.
Stem Cell Transplant: In some cases, a stem cell transplant from a compatible donor can cure sickle cell disease.
Preventive Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and antibiotics can help prevent infections and other complications.
Hydration and Oxygen Therapy: Ensuring the child stays well-hydrated and receives oxygen can help reduce the risk of sickle cell crises.

Why Choose Us

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we offer specialized care and advanced treatments for children with sickle cell disease. Here’s why families trust us:

Expert Care: Our team includes experienced pediatric hematologists who specialize in managing sickle cell disease.
Comprehensive Treatment: We provide a holistic approach to care, including pain management, blood transfusions, and genetic counseling.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our hospital is equipped with the latest technology for diagnosing and treating sickle cell disease.
Multidisciplinary Team: Our collaborative team approach ensures that your child receives comprehensive care, including support from nutritionists, therapists, and social workers.
Family-Centered Care: We work closely with families to create personalized care plans that address the unique needs of each child.

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with sickle cell disease. Here’s why families trust us:

“Our son was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at birth, and we were devastated. But the team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital has been a blessing. They’ve provided us with the support, care, and expertise we needed to manage his condition. Thanks to them, our son is thriving, and we feel more confident about his future.”
Emilyparent of a child with sickle cell disease

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A sickle cell crisis is a painful episode that occurs when the sickle-shaped red blood cells block blood flow in small blood vessels. This can cause severe pain, especially in the chest, abdomen, and joints.

While there is no universal cure for sickle cell disease, a stem cell transplant can potentially cure the condition in some children. However, this procedure carries significant risks and is not suitable for all patients.

Work closely with your child’s healthcare team to develop a comprehensive care plan that includes regular medical check-ups, proper hydration, pain management, and infection prevention strategies.

Contact Us

If your child has been diagnosed with sickle cell disease, our team at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital is here to provide the specialized care and support your family needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our aplastic anemia treatment program.