Sickle Cell Disease

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses sickle cell disease as a severely debilitating genetic disorder that has no real cure except for the risky bone marrow transplantation. The paper notes that pharmacological interventions are thus largely focused on symptomatic management and in reducing the discomfort and pain for the patient. The paper discusses the severe psychosocial issues associated with the disease and vocational rehabilitation management of the disease. The paper notes that providing proper counseling and supportive therapy is essential in order to improve the quality of life for the affected individual.

Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Sickle Cell Disease Etiology
Diagnosis
Pathophysiology
Treatment Methods
Hydroxyurea
Erythropoietin and Nitric Oxide
Bone Marrow Transplantation
Gene Therapy
Psychosocial Implications
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"With the advancements in genetic science the search for a cure to sickle cell disease by way of gene therapy is ongoing. It has been many years since researchers cloned the beta globin gene and current research is focused on the locus control region and the use of adeno-associated viruses as vectors. Research is also focused on inserting the AAV into pluripotent stem cells so as to trigger the synthesis of healthy beta-globin naturally. However, there are still a lot of biomolecular mechanisms involved that need to be clearly understood before gene therapy can be offered as a solution for sickle cell disease. One important problem for example, is overcoming the immune response to the viral vector. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• CDC, 'Sickle Cell Disease', retrieved on Feb 10th 2008, from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/hcp_data.htm
• Allan Platt, 'Emergency Management of Sickle cell Disease', Retrieved on Feb 10th 2008, from, http://www.emorypa.org/LAPAsicklehandout.doc
• Nemours Foundation, "Sickle Cell Disease', Retrieved on Feb 10th 2008, from http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/heart/sickle_cell_anemia.html
• Doris L. Wethers, M.D, (2000), 'Sickle Cell Disease in childhood', Published by American Family Physician, Retrieved on Feb 10th 2008, from, http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000901/1013.html
• SCDAA, (2005) 'What is Sickle Cell Disease', Retrieved on Feb 12th 2008, from, http://www.sicklecelldisease.org/about_scd/

More papers on Sickle Cell Disease:

• Term Paper # 142982 : "The Biology of Sickle Cell Disease"
• Term Paper # 142981 : "Anatomical Aspects of Sickle Cell Disease"
• Analytical Essay # 126541 : "Sickle Cell Disease in Springfield Gardens"
• Analytical Essay # 123144 : "Sickle Cell Disease and Gene Therapy"

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