Sickle cell disease, update on management

The article aims to provide a broad overview of sickle cell disorders emphasizing current developments in modern management. The value of neonatal screening, now universal in England, is evaluated with emphasis on the importance of effective measures to reduce the risk of pneumococcal infection. Complications of sickle cell disease are discussed individually with key points of management highlighted, stroke and the use of transcranial Doppler screening as a tool to identify high risk patients is discussed in detail.The importance of effective, safe and rapid pain relief is highlighted and reference given to new NICE guidelines in this area. Recent changes in commissioning for sickle cell disorders will lead over the next 2 years to more equitable access to both specialist and local care within a multidisciplinary team setting, such arrangements should lead to significant improvements in the quality of care for children with these now common disorders.