Advancements in Sickle Cell Disease Treatment: A Review of Crizanlizumab

Abstract

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.