Matched-Sibling Stem Cell Transplantation and Stroke in Children With SCA

Stroke is one of the most devastating complications of sickle cell anemia (SCA), and risk of stroke starts very early in life. Before screening techniques were available, 11% of children with homozygous SCA had ischemic stroke by their 20th birthday. Although most children with SCA will have neurologic recovery after stroke, approximately one-third will have long-term neurologic sequelae, including motor impairment. Moreover, children with SCA who have had a stroke often have neurocognitive impairment and difficulties with academic performance.