Conventional and molecular imaging in sickle cell disease

2016 Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a disorder caused by single gene mutation and has systemic manifestations which include chronic hemolytic anemia, vaso-occlusive episodes throughout the body, recurrent infections, and multi-organ infarctions. Imaging has been established to play a role in detecting and managing SCD complications. In this educational abstract, we discuss and highlight imaging techniques utilized in SCD system-based complications. Objectives: 1) Review the role of CT and MRI in sickle cell disease. 2) Explain the utility of molecular imaging in sickle cell disease. 3) Compare conventional and molecular imaging findings in sickle cell disease. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. Conclusions: Central nervous system: About 25% of SCD patients are affected by vascular involvement of central nervous system. CT scan has been used to detect cerebral infarction. Subclinical cranial MRI lesions yield important predictive values as a risk factor of stroke, even when detected in asymptomatic patients. SPECT is a useful technique for early detection of deficits in cerebral perfusion in patients with SCD. Decreases in cerebral perfusions may lead to silent infarction, stroke, or neurocognitive diseases. PET may improve sensitivity in detection of impaired metabolism in the area surrounding a major vessel infarct. A study on brain regional alternations with FDG-PET imaging compared SCD patients without prior neurologic abnormalities (and with normal brain CT scans) with healthy controls and showed frontal lobe involvement in SCD patients. Acute chest syndrome (ACS): ACS is the most important cause of death in adult patients with SCD. Chest imaging has an established role in its management. The bedside chest radiograph has > 85% sensitivity and