What is the initial treatment?
- Children/Infants should undergo routine immunizations and vaccines during their childhood.
- During infancy, multivitamin supplements with iron can be taken.
- Children 2 months- 5 years of age need daily dosages of antibiotics such as penicillin
- Adults should take Folic acid supplements daily
- Adults can also take protein supplements for the lack of weight gain.
What are the side effects?
- relief: supplemental oxygen
- Repeated transfusions cause complications
- Stroke
Gene Therapy
- In dealing with SCA, which is caused by a defective gene, scientists are in the process of determining the possibility of inserting a normal gene into the bone marrow of people with Sickle Cell Anemia, which will result in the production of normal hemoglobin.
What are the ongoing treatments?
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Urine Tests
- Tests to monitor the functioning of organs
- Additional Routine Lab Tests
- After 2 years of age, a child can be given a transcranial ultrasound
- Blood Transfusions
- Bone Marrow (experimental)
Case Study 3: Sickle Anemia
Question #2
What are home treatments?
- Bed Rest
- Heating Pads (Pain)
- Keeping Warm (Less Pain)
- Drinking excessive amounts of fluids