Transcranial Doppler measures in patients with sickle cell disease at high risk for stroke and receiving hydroxyurea: the HyRetro ancillary study

Abstract

Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) and increased transcranial Doppler sonography velocity measures are at increased risk for stroke. Although chronic transfusion decreases risk tenfold, this form of therapy is burdensome and includes risk of iron overload. Hydroxyurea therapy is effective in preventing SCD complications, although its effect in preventing SCD central nervous system complications is less clear and a matter of current investigation.