Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder in which red blood cells become abnormally shaped, impacting their ability to function correctly and resulting in painful and damaging vaso-occlusion (or blockage of blood vessels). The condition is particularly prevalent in African-Americans.

The interdisciplinary Duke Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center skillfully evaluates, diagnoses, and helps patients of all ages manage the different variants of sickle cell disease -- the most familiar of which is sickle cell anemia -- as well as related sickling and hemoglobin disorders.

In addition to delivering comprehensive patient care services, the center provides social services, psychological support, educational resources, and genetic counseling. The center also maintains an active clinical and basic research program, with support from the National Institutes of Health as well as other organizations.

The Pediatric Hematology program page has additional information about the Pediatric Sickle Cell Center.

Appointments

To learn more about Duke’s Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, or to schedule an appointment or get a referral, call 919-660-4363 (919-660-HEME) locally or 888-ASK-DUKE (888-275-3853) toll-free.

Physicians

Physicians offering this service include:

• Crawford, Regina D.
  • Medicine / Medicine - Hematology
• DeCastro, Laura M.
  • Medicine / Medicine - Hematology
• Shah, Nirmish R.
  • Medicine / Medicine - Hematology
  • Pediatrics / Pediatrics-Hematology/Oncology
• Telen, Marilyn J.
  • Medicine / Medicine - Hematology
  • Pathology

Locations

This service is available at:

• Duke Adult Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center
  Duke Clinic 2N, 40 Duke Medicine Circle, Durham, NC 27705
• Duke University Hospital
  2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710