A Comprehensive Guide To Sickle Cell Anemia

Use Of Stem Cell Transplants

In recent years, the use of stem cell transplants has shown promise as a treatment method for various conditions, including sickle cell anemia, though more research needs to be done to determine its efficacy. In one study, adults with severe sickle cell anemia received successful treatment through a stem cell transplant. They didn't need extensive immunosuppressants afterward. In addition, multiple children have received successful treatment through a stem cell transplant. At first, these transplants were deemed unviable for adults, but recent studies indicate they may not be. When children with sickle cell anemia received a stem cell transplant, their bodies showed a mix of the donor's blood cells and their own. Even though there was a mix, there wasn't any sign of sickle cell anemia. These were the findings that led researchers to attempt the transplant process with adults.

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Prognosis

Considering there is no cure for sickle cell anemia, the life expectancy of an afflicted individual is reduced as some individuals may not survive past infancy or early childhood. Although rare, some patients can remain without symptoms for years and not discover the condition until they are an adult. Regardless, with optimal management of the condition patients can survive beyond forty years old and have a somewhat normal life expectancy. The main causes of death for patients with this genetic condition are bacterial infections, a stroke, bleeding of the brain, and heart, kidney, or liver failure. Bacterial infections are the most common cause of death for any sickle cell anemia patient at any age. Therefore, if any signs of infection appear, patients should receive immediate medical attention to prevent any further (organ) damage and to save their life.

Continue to discover information on other types of inherited hemolytic anemia now.