155k views
0 votes
Definitive cure for SC? post-op mortality?

User Phil Poore
by
9.0k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

A definitive cure for Sickle Cell disease is a bone marrow transplant, which carries significant risks and variable post-op mortality rates. This treatment is reserved for severe cases and requires careful consideration and compatibility matching. Ongoing research is exploring less risky treatments like gene therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering the term 'SC' in medicine, it could refer to various conditions, and thus the term itself needs specification. However, if we assume SC refers to Sickle Cell anemia in this context, then we can address the concept of a definitive cure and post-op mortality.

The only currently recognized definitive cure for Sickle Cell disease is a bone marrow transplant(BMT) or stem cell transplant. This procedure involves replacing the patient's bone marrow, which contains the diseased cells, with healthy bone marrow from a compatible donor. However, this treatment is not without risks, and is generally reserved for patients with severe cases due to the associated complications and the difficulty of finding a suitable donor.

Post-operative mortality rates for bone marrow transplants can vary widely depending on patient health, age, compatibility of the donor, and the presence of any complications. According to some studies, mortality rates can be significant, particularly within the first few years post-transplant. Hence, the decision for this treatment requires careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks.

There is ongoing research focused on alternative treatments for Sickle Cell disease, including gene therapy, which may provide less risky and more broadly available treatments in the future. It's crucial for patients to have a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider about all possible treatment options.

User Piere
by
8.5k points