Medicina Translacional
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HydroxyureaTherapy in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease

Al-Anazi KA

Sickle cell anemia is associated with several systemic complications and life-threatening crises. The use of hydroxyurea, which increases hemoglobin F level in patients with sickle cell disease, is associated with reduction in disease severity, diminution in the frequency of veno-occlusive crises and other complications as well as improvement in the quality of life. There are specific indications for the use of hydroxyurea in patients with sickle cell disease and there are certain tools to monitor its effectiveness. Hydroxyurea has been shown to be a safe medication even on long-term administration. However, close monitoring and regular follow up of patients from clinical and laboratory sides are essential to ensure early discovery of toxicity, adherence to the prescribed treatment in addition to continued and long-lasting response to therapy. In this literature review: the complications of sickle cell anemia as well as the available therapeutic modalities will be highlighted and the role of hydroxyurea in the management of patients with the disease will be discussed thoroughly.