Psychopathology in sickle cell disease

Abstract

Acute and chronic medical conditions are often complicated by psychiatric symptoms. Depression and anxiety are two of the most common psychiatric symptoms that complicate the diagnosis and management of medical conditions. Despite the well-known association between chronic medical conditions and psychiatric diagnoses, psychopathology among individuals with Sickle cell disease (SCD) is not well recognised. The purpose of this article is to examine the relationship between psychiatric symptoms and SCD. We reviewed the existing literature regarding the psychological sequelae among patients with SCD. We then recommend how to better identify and treat psychopathology associated with this condition.