Erythropoietic drive is the strongest predictor of hepcidin level in adults with sickle cell disease.

Levels of hepcidin, a key modulator of iron metabolism, are influenced by erythropoiesis, iron, and inflammation, all of which may be increased in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). The objectives of this study were to determine: 1) the variation in hepcidin level, and 2) the relative contribution of erythropoietic drive, iron, and inflammation to differences in hepcidin level in an adult cohort with SCD. In a prospective study, cross-sectional measurements of hepcidin, reticulocyte percentage, erythropoietin, ferritin, and high-sensitivity CRP were obtained.

Use of a dual lumen port for automated red cell exchange in adults with sickle cell disease.

Red cell exchange (RCE) is a common procedure in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). Implantable dual lumen Vortex (DLV) ports can be used for RCE in patients with poor peripheral venous access. We performed a retrospective cohort study of RCE procedures performed in adults with SCD.