MANAGEMENT OF CHILDREN WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE IN EUROPE: CURRENT SITUATION AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common haemoglobinopathy worldwide and its frequency has steadily increased in Europe in the past decades. SCD is a complex multisystem disorder characterised by chronic haemolytic anaemia, vaso-occlusive crisis, and vasculopathy. Clinical manifestations can be very different, ranging from mild haemolysis to life-threatening acute clinical complications and chronic disabilities. This review will explore service delivery across Europe to children with SCD, reporting on the available minimum standards of care and future perspectives.

Keywords

• sickle cell disease (scd)
• childhood
• management
• europe