A case of SCD controlled by IMiDs and hydroxyurea

Int J Hematol. 2026 Apr;123(4):607-610. doi: 10.1007/s12185-025-04146-2. Epub 2025 Dec 27.

Abstract

IMiDs (immunomodulatory drugs from the thalidomide class) enhance hemoglobin F (HbF) production but are not yet approved for sickle cell disease (SCD). Here, we describe a case of severe SCD and multiple myeloma (MM) in which over 6 years of treatment with IMiDs and hydroxyurea led to sustained remission of SCD.

Keywords: Fetal hemoglobin (HbF); Hydroxyurea; Multiple myeloma (MM); Pomalidomide; Sickle cell disease (SCD).

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Sickle Cell* / complications
  • Anemia, Sickle Cell* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydroxyurea* / administration & dosage
  • Hydroxyurea* / therapeutic use
  • Immunologic Factors* / administration & dosage
  • Immunologic Factors* / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Myeloma* / complications
  • Multiple Myeloma* / drug therapy
  • Thalidomide* / administration & dosage
  • Thalidomide* / analogs & derivatives
  • Thalidomide* / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Hydroxyurea
  • Thalidomide
  • Immunologic Factors