Understanding the Probability of Passing on Sickle Cell Trait and Disease

Although there were some early reports of sickle cell disease (SCD) in the late 19th century, the 1st time that the disease was referenced in literature was in 1910. Then in 1957, a doctor studying protein chemistry in England discovers that a single genetic mutation causes the abnormal hemoglobin found in patients who inherit SCD. And our knowledge of SCD continues to grow. In this episode, we will review a soon-to-be released new SMFM Consult Series # 68 highlighting the data on management of SCD and pregnancy. Are routine, prophylactic blood transfusions in pregnancy recommended? What about hydroxyurea? What is the dose of folic acid recommended for these patients? Is antepartum fetal surveillance recommended? We will answer all of these questions, and more, in this episode.