Neurologic Complications of Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract

Purpose of review: Sickle cell anemia is a multiorgan disease with acute and chronic complications. Involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. This review highlights the broad spectrum of neurological complications seen in patients with sickle cell disease.

Recent findings: Increasing recognition of neurological complications has led to improved diagnostic and treatment options throughout the years. Neurologic complications in sickle cell disease include silent cerebral ischemia, ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke, moyamoya syndrome, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, cerebral fat embolism, and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Treatment varies depending on the neurological complication. Sickle cell disease is the most common hereditary anemia with increasing global disease burden. Early recognition and treatment is imperative.

Keywords: SCD; Sickle cell disease; Silent cerebral ischemia; Stroke; Transcranial Doppler ultrasound.