Counsel adolescents regarding the importance of reporting signs and symptoms. When blood vessels supplying bone get blocked by sickle cells, the bone can become damaged. When sickling occurs repeatedly in the veins supplying bone, damage may occur in these tissues. This condition manifests slowly and rarely occurs before the age of ten years. Sickle cell retinopathy is more common in children with Hemoglobin SC disease.
Some patients develop ulcers, especially around their ankles.
This problem does not happen often and usually affects older children and adults. A patch of dry itchy skin. Keep the area clean. Put on a fresh bandage twice a day or as often as directed.