The possible role of reticulocytes in sickle cell disease associated thromboembolism

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with an increased incidence of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism which contributes to the morbidity and mortality associated with it. The predisposition to thrombosis has been attributed to the different blood components including platelets, the coagulation system and recently damaged red cells. This article discusses the possible role of reticulocytes in promoting thrombus formation in individuals with SCD and suggests a similar pathogenetic mechanism in thromboembolism associated with other hemolytic states.