Overview
About sickle cell anemia
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited form of anemia. Normal red blood cells are smooth and flexible. Shaped like the letter "O," they easily move through your child’s blood vessels. Sickle cells become rigid and sticky and are shaped like the letter "C." These oddly shaped cells tend to cluster together and get stuck in the small blood vessels, slowing or blocking blood flow and oxygen.
Symptoms and diagnosis
What to look for
Signs and symptoms
Easily tired
Anemia
Episodes of pain
Painful swelling in hands and feet
Frequent infections
Delayed growth
Vision problems
Diagnosis
Your child’s doctor will do a full physical exam and take a detailed medical history. They will also request a blood test to determine the type of hemoglobin your child has, if they have sickle cell anemia or if they are a carrier of the disease.
Treatment
Sickle cell anemia treatment
Our specialists offer the most advanced treatment pediatric sickle cell anemia options.
Treatment
Medications, including pain-relievers and antibiotics, are used to reduce pain and prevent complications.
Blood transfusion. This is a routine medical procedure in which donated blood is used to replace blood that's been lost.
Fighting pediatric cancer and blood disorders
UW Health Kids | Carbone Cancer Center experts are national research leaders. We test new therapies and continue to work on therapies for pediatric cancer and blood disorders. For many children with rare or hard-to-treat conditions, clinical trials provide new options.
Patient stories
Meet our patients
Meet our team
An experienced team providing your child with the care they deserve
Your child’s care is our top priority and we understand the unique needs they have.
Your child’s team will include:
Child life specialists
Hematologists (blood disease doctors)
Nurse practitioners
Nurses and transfusion medicine specialists
Pain management specialists
Physical, occupational and speech therapists
Radiologists and radiation technologists
Social workers
Surgeons
Locations
Care for your child
UW Health Kids | Carbone Cancer Center hematologists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating all infants, children and adolescents with blood disorders, including sickle cell anemia.
At American Family Children’s Hospital, you will find a friendly, child-centered environment. Our hospital is designed with relaxing spaces and areas where children are encouraged to play.
Patient and support services
You’re never alone
When your child needs hospitalization, they will be admitted to American Family Children's Hospital in Madison, Wis.
Child life specialists help your child and family cope with any fears and anxieties. The American Family Children's Hospital Patient and Family Visitor Guide features information about:
Hero beads
Hospital school
Positive Image Center
Spiritual care services
Tyler's Place (sibling child care)