Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder in which red blood cells are abnormally shaped (the cells are shaped like sickles instead of flattened discs).
Symptoms of sickle cell disease can range from mild to severe, depending on a number of factors including which genes a child has inherited. Generally, most kids with the disease have some degree of anemia and are at risk for developing other complications, such as painful episodes, serious infections, chronic anemia, stroke and damage to body organs.
Because early diagnosis, progressive treatment, and regular follow-up care are crucial to preventing such complications, Nemours is pleased to offer a comprehensive Sickle Cell Program for children and adolescents with the disease.
Our Sickle Cell Program provides long-term and preventive care in a supportive, family-focused environment. Clinical staff includes doctors, psychologists, social workers, nurse practitioners, and blood bank personnel, all working together to ensure the best outcomes for children with the disease. In addition we provide access to various pediatric specialists needed to treat complications of the disease.
We recommend treatment that includes medication to manage pain, as well as immunizations and daily doses of an antibiotic to prevent infection. Some children with severe symptoms that are not responding to the usual treatments might require further intervention, and in these cases bone marrow transplant may be an option.
We’ve also created a variety of educational programs for patients, families, teachers, and school nurses so that everyone involved in your child’s life is aware of his or her condition and how to help manage it. In addition, we’ve developed a unique program that helps transition older adolescents and young adults up to age 18 from pediatric care to adult care provided by hematologists trained in internal medicine.