Sickle Cell Crises in Pregnancy: Fetal and Neonatal Implications

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Genetics
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent inherited blood disorder globally.
• It disproportionately affects individuals of African descent, impacting 100,000 births annually in the U.S.
• SCD involves abnormal hemoglobin leading to sickle-shaped red blood cells under deoxygenation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease.
• To highlight the increased risks associated with pregnancy in individuals with SCD.
• To underscore the implications for maternal, fetal, and neonatal health outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of SCD pathophysiology.
• Analysis of epidemiological data on SCD prevalence.
• Synthesis of clinical outcomes in pregnant SCD patients.

Main Results:

• Deoxygenated red blood cells in SCD form a sickle shape.
• This sickling causes vaso-occlusion, leading to ischemia and organ damage.
• Pregnancy exacerbates risks, increasing vaso-occlusive crises and adverse maternal-fetal outcomes.

Conclusions:

• SCD poses significant health challenges due to vaso-occlusion and organ dysfunction.
• Pregnancy in SCD patients necessitates heightened medical surveillance.
• Effective management is crucial to mitigate risks of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.