Oral manifestations and management of sickle cell disease: a literature review

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive hematological disorder that results in defective red blood cells (RBCs). These RBCs become sickled in shape, have a shortened lifespan leading to vascular occlusion and ischemia resulting in damaging effect on many organs throughout the body. There are numerous oral manifestations of SCD, although some may not be specific to SCD, it is important to recognize these clinical presentations and have a good understanding of the disease process to help in management of SCD from an oral health care perspective. The oral care of sickle cell patients requires specific precautions such as good management of local anaesthetics, rigorous anti-infective prophylaxis as well as controlled prescription of analgesics.