Management of sickle cell/beta thalassemia patient with severe odontogenic infection.

The sickle cell diseases are caused by a genetic mutation in the hemoglobin molecule, resulting in the decreased ability to transport oxygen with subsequent clinical ramifications secondary to the sickling of the red blood cells. Routine dental and oral surgical management is possible in the office with adherence to basic principles, including hydration, oxygenation and adequate anesthesia/analgesia. The underlying pathophysiology and management protocols for the sickle diseases are discussed.