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Atherosclerosis in sickle cell disease - a review

Mohamed A Elsharawy1, Khaled M Moghazy, Mohamed A Shawarby

  • 1Departments of Surgery;

The International Journal of Angiology : Official Publication of the International College of Angiology, Inc
|April 6, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Sickle cell disease (SCD) patients experience atherosclerosis due to endothelial dysfunction, homocysteine, and platelets. This review covers its pathogenesis, sites, assessment, and treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Hematology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by acute vaso-occlusive crises.
  • Atherosclerosis development is increasingly recognized in SCD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in SCD.
  • To describe common and uncommon sites of atherosclerosis.
  • To discuss radiological assessment and therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on SCD and atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of the roles of endothelial dysfunction, homocysteine, and platelets.
  • Evaluation of radiological findings and treatment options.

Main Results:

  • Endothelial dysfunction, elevated homocysteine, and platelet activation are key contributors to atherosclerosis in SCD.
  • Atherosclerosis affects various vascular beds in SCD patients.
  • Radiological assessment aids in identifying and monitoring atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding atherosclerosis pathogenesis in SCD is crucial for management.
  • Targeting endothelial dysfunction, homocysteine, and platelets may offer therapeutic benefits.
  • Multifaceted approaches are needed for treating atherosclerosis in SCD patients.

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