PROTOCOL ENTRY CRITERIA:

--Disease Characteristics-- Sickle cell crisis requiring hospital admission Crisis began at least 12 hours prior to admission Medical records documenting sickle cell disease and previous crisis requiring hospital visit during the last 24 months available at study site No thalassemia No complex hemoglobinopathy involving thalassemia and sickle cell disease

--Patient Characteristics-- Renal: Creatine no greater than 2.2 mg/dL No requirement for regular dialysis Other: Weight above or below 30% of ideal body weight No fructose intolerance No insulin-dependent diabetes No HIV seropositivity No acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or AIDS-related illness No general anesthetic for 7 days prior to and 2 days following entry Primary language allows communication with study staff Demonstration of ability to read and understand pain scales required Ability to identify crisis starting time accurately, i.e., to within 6 hours