This study tests whether early heart screening and treatment for iron overload in subjects with sickle cell disease can prevent heart problems and reduce hospitalizations.
Inclusion Criteria: * At least 18 years of age * Diagnosis of sickle cell disease (any genotype) * Serum ferritin levels ≥ 400 ng/mL (up to 80 patients), or less than 400 ng/mL in those who have cardiac symptoms including shortness of breath and lower extremity edema (up to 20 patients) * Willingness to undergo regular imaging (echocardiograms, ECG, cardiac MRI) * ECOG performance status of 0-1 * Able to read, understand and provide written informed consent * Deemed appropriate for participation by the treating physician Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to schedule and required follow-up visits * Medical comorbidities including: * Known heart failure * Unstable angina * Uncontrolled dysrhythmias * Acute pulmonary embolism * Active infection or severe comorbid conditions that in the view of the investigator would limit participation * History of hypersensitivity or contraindication to chelation therapy * Severe renal or hepatic impairment * Pregnancy of breastfeeding