Sid, in my recent travels, I learned that a 2nd cousin (12 months old) has severe spherocytosis and has had several blood transfusions which the doctors want to increase to every 3 weeks. Obviously he is way too young for a splenectomy and his Grandmother was looking at some sort of stem cell research from an umbilical cord.(?) Does this sound like something that is possible these days and do you know the chances of success? I asked his mom and grandmother to post here and ask for you but apparently they may have been intimidated (computerphobia)so I don't have exact details. Anything you can tell me would be appreciated. thx.

I'm not aware of specific cord-blood stem cell treatment being available, but I wouldn't be surprised if there is active research going on: such genetic diseases where defective proteins have been identified are theoretically ideal targets for stem cell and/or gene therapy, including the introduction of normal genes via some sort of carrier such as a virus. Also, there have been some studies of partial splenectomy for kids. The issue, as you may know, is immune compromise when the spleen is removed in those under age 5 or so. Less so, in adults. So there have been some attempts, with success, at removing most of the spleen, to reduce hemolysis, while leaving some for immune purposes. It sounds promising as a holding action for young children with severe manifestations. Complete splenectomy, as you know, is essentially completely curative; if partial removal allows time before completing the splenectomy, or is able to avoid it, it's worth considering.

Sid, thanks for the prompt reply, I will let them know to look into the partial as well.