Management of sickle cell anemia and pregnancy

Abstract

There has been significant decrease in maternal morbidity and mortality of sickle cell disease patients during pregnancy due to better understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease and physiologic changes during pregnancy. Prophylactic blood transfusion does not appear to reduce complications in patients with sickle cell anemia. Patients with sickle hemoglobin C disease and with S beta thalassemia+ have fewer complications but still need close monitoring. Blood transfusion therapy should be made available for medical and obstetrical complications to include increasing hypoxemia, progressive anemia, acute chest syndrome, twin pregnancy, splenic sequestration syndrome, preeclampsia, septicemia, or prior to general anesthesia and surgery. Blood transfusion therapy is associated with hepatitis, allergic reaction, alloimmunization, AIDS, and iron overload states. These aspects should be considered prior to using blood transfusion therapy. Excellent prenatal monitoring and aggressive intervention should be instituted when problems arise for the successful management of the pregnant patient with sickle cell disease. Prenatal diagnosis and cord blood screening should be made available for the infant. Appropriate pediatric referral and prophylactic penicillin is recommended for the infant with sickle cell disease.