Sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by intermittent vaso-occlusive events and chronic hemolytic anemia.Vaso-occlusive events result in tissue ischemia, leading to acute and chronic pain as well as organ damage that can affect any organ system, including the bones, spleen, liver, brain, lungs, kidneys, and joints.Dactylitis (pain and/or swelling of the hands or feet) is often the earliest manifestation of SCD.