Need information concerning different treatments available for sickle-cell anemia.
2006-08-16 04:32:11 · 3 answers · asked by Gbaway 1 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Infectious Diseases
Health maintenance for patients with sickle cell disease starts with early diagnosis, preferably in the newborn period and includes penicillin prophylaxis, vaccination against pneumococcus bacteria and folic acid supplementation.
Treatment of complications often includes antibiotics, pain management, intravenous fluids, blood transfusion and surgery all backed by psychosocial support. Like all patients with chronic disease patients are best managed in a comprehensive multi-disciplinary program of care.
Blood transfusions help benefit sickle cell disease patients by reducing recurrent pain crises, risk of stroke and other complications. Because red blood cells contain iron, and there is no natural way for the body to eliminate it, patients who receive repeated blood transfusions can accumulate iron in the body until it reaches toxic levels. It is important to remove excess iron from the body, because it can gather in the heart, liver, and other organs and may lead to organ damage. Treatments are available to eliminate iron overload.
In search for a substance that can prevent red blood cells from sickling without causing harm to other parts of the body, Hydroxyurea was found to reduce the frequency of severe pain, acute chest syndrome and the need for blood transfusions in adult patients with sickle cell disease. Droxia, the prescription form of hydroxyurea, was approved by the FDA in 1998 and is now available for adult patients with sickle cell anemia. Studies will now be conducted to determine the proper dosage for children.
2006-08-17 07:18:18 · answer #1 · answered by lonelycrow 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Definite treatment--- Bone marrow transplant. Supportive----- Hydroxyurea increases the amount of fetal hemoglobin and reduces sickling. Folic acid should be given and blood transfusions when necessary. During painful crises, pain- killers are given.
2006-08-16 07:24:51 · answer #2 · answered by yakkydoc 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
why stem cell match are so difficult for sickle cell anemia clients
2016-03-27 04:27:03 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋