Sickle cell retinopathy

Sickle cell retinopathy was described as early as 1930 and research has been ongoing as to the pathophysiology of the disease, its effects on the eye and successful treatment. Disease stages have been identified and treatment modalities have been established for each stage. Research results and case reports have been published in medical journals available to physicians; however, there are no identifiable publications applicable to the nursing skills required to deal with this disease. Ophthalmic nurses should be knowledgeable of the sickle cell diseases and specifically the resultant retinopathy.