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[Sickle cell disease and infection].
Dayana V P Di Nuzzo1, Silvana F Fonseca
1Departamento de Pediatria, Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, BA. bluemare@ig.com.br
Jornal De Pediatria
|October 27, 2004
Summary
Sickle cell disease (SCD) significantly increases infection risks, leading to higher morbidity and mortality. This review highlights common infections and management strategies like immunizations to reduce complications in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) is prevalent in many environments.
- Infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with SCD.
- Understanding the link between SCD and infections is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the high prevalence of sickle cell disease.
- To discuss the increased risk of infection, morbidity, and mortality associated with SCD.
- To provide information on managing infections in pediatric SCD patients.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
- MEDLINE database was searched from 1986 to 2003.
- Thirty-five journal articles and two textbook chapters were analyzed.
Main Results:
- General information on sickle cell disease is presented.
- Common infections in SCD patients are detailed.
- Strategies for drug prophylaxis and immunizations are discussed.
Conclusions:
- This review aims to equip the pediatric community with knowledge on SCD-associated infections.
- The goal is to minimize the occurrence of serious complications in children with sickle cell disease.
- Effective management of infections can improve outcomes for SCD patients.