--Disease Characteristics-- Significant sickle cell syndrome including Hemoglobin SS (HbSS), Hemoglobin S-beta thalassemia, and hemoglobin variants. Lower extremity or ankle ulcer (or ulcers) present for at least 6 months without healing --Patient Characteristics-- Age: 16-60 yrs Performance status: Not specified Hematopoietic: Not specified Hepatic: No hepatic compromise Transaminases no greater than 250 IU Renal: No renal compromise Creatinine no greater than 1.2 mg/mL (adults) Creatinine no greater than 0.9 mg/mL (teenagers) Other: Not pregnant Fertile patients must use effective contraception No poorly controlled seizure disorders No other secondary conditions that might inhibit immune function