Tackling sickle cell crisis in Nigeria: the need for newer therapeutic solutions in sickle cell crisis management - short communication

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited haematological disorders, which affects the shape of the oxygen-carrying haemoglobin component of erythrocytes, giving it an abnormal sickle-shaped appearance. This disease is one of the most common haematological disorders in Nigeria and is generally characterized by anaemia, painful crises, and multi-organ dysfunction. Recurrent episodes of painful crises account for most of the morbidities and mortalities observed in SCD, particularly sickle cell anaemia. This has been a critical concern in the field of haematology and molecular genetics as several therapeutic solutions have been explored over the past few years to treat symptoms of this disease and alleviate painful crises. However, most of these treatment options are not readily available and affordable to affected patients in lower socioeconomic settings in Nigeria, causing a wider range of complications and end-stage organ failure. To address this issue, this article explores an overview of SCD, management alternatives and the need for newer therapeutic solutions to cover the gaps or inadequacies of effective sickle cell crisis management.