When Is Dactylitis Seen in Sickle Cell?

Dactylitis is the term for painful swelling of the hands and feet in SCD. It affects infants and young children from 6 months old to 6 years old. It is most common in the first 6 to 12 months of life.

Why does sickle cell cause Dactylitis?

Dactylitis is severe pain that affects the bones of the hands, the feet, or both. It's often the first symptom of sickle cell disease in babies. Dactylitis is caused by blocked blood circulation. Symptoms include extreme pain and tenderness, usually with swelling.

What is hand foot syndrome in sickle cell anemia?

Definition. A severe acute inflammatory response affecting the hands and feet of individuals with with sickle cell disease, sickle cell-hemoglobin C disease or sickle cell-beta-thalassemia. It is caused by vaso-occlusive episodes leading to ischemia and finally infarction of the distal portions of the extremities.