Sickle cell disease impacts the lives of an estimated 100,000 Americans. The impact ranges from mild lab abnormalities to painful vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC), pulmonary hypertension, and strokes. Management strategies for VOC include opioids, NSAIDs, and other adjuvant agents. Newer scientific discoveries are attempting to prevent sickling, VOC occurrences, and other negative sequelae. This discussion will bring focus to the newer strategies at prevention and management of sickle cell disease.
Learning Objectives:
Recall the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease and complications
Review the most recent medication additions to the management of sickle cell disease
Summarize the strategies for acute, chronic and acute-on-chronic pain management for the sickle cell patient
.jpg "Thomas B. Gregory, PharmD, BCPS, CPE, FASPE photo")