Cardiac rhythm disorders in sickle cell disease: A literature review

Sickle cell disease is a hereditary haemoglobinopathy characterized by chronic haemolysis, vaso-occlusive events and multisystem involvement. Whereas haematological and pulmonary complications are well recognized, cardiac involvement - particularly arrhythmias - has recently emerged as an important contributor to morbidity and mortality. This review examines the spectrum of rhythm disturbances in this population based on recent clinical data. Electrocardiographic abnormalities are common, including corrected QT interval prolongation, sinus tachycardia and repolarization changes. Supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias are increasingly reported, and may contribute to sudden cardiac death, particularly during acute vaso-occlusive events. Proposed mechanisms are multifactorial, involving myocardial ischaemia imbalance and inflammation. Despite growing awareness, the prognostic significance and optimal management of arrhythmias in sickle cell disease remain poorly defined. Further studies are needed to improve risk stratification and guide targeted preventive and therapeutic strategies.