Advancements in Sickle Cell Disease Treatment: A Review of Crizanlizumab

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic, inherited blood disorder marked by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, which causes red blood cells to assume a rigid, sickle-like shape. These distorted cells contribute to hemolysis, impaired blood flow, and recurrent vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), the hallmark and most debilitating complication of the disease. Beyond acute pain episodes, Sickle cell disease leads to progressive organ damage and reduced life expectancy, placing a substantial burden on patients and healthcare systems worldwide. While supportive care has long been the cornerstone of management, the emergence of targeted therapies offers new hope. Crizanlizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody directed against P-selectin, disrupts the cellular adhesion processes that drive vaso-occlusive crises. This review highlights the pathophysiology of Sickle cell disease, details the mechanism of action of crizanlizumab, and evaluates clinical trial evidence regarding its efficacy, safety, and therapeutic potential. Collectively, the findings underscore crizanlizumab’s promise as a transformative therapy that can reduce VOC frequency and improve quality of life for individuals living with SCD.