[Sickle cell disease in France in 2008. Achievements and challenges].

Much progress has been made in the past two decades in the diagnosis and management of sickle-cell disease. Clinical, pathophysiological and therapeutic studies have given rise to national procedures for all patients. Life expectancy has improved dramatically in industrialized countries, and the number of sickle-cell patients reaching adulthood is growing. Neonatal diagnosis began in France in 1995 and is crucial for early prevention. Crisis management and long-term surveillance both require dedicated drepanocytosis centers for children and for adults.