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Susceptibility to invasive bacterial infections in children with sickle cell disease

Anna J Battersby1, Huxley H M Knox-Macaulay, Enitan D Carrol

  • 1Institute of Child Health, University of Liverpool, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Eaton Road, Liverpool, UK.

Pediatric Blood & Cancer
|March 17, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) are highly vulnerable to invasive bacterial infections (IBI), particularly from Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Early diagnosis and preventative measures like immunization can significantly reduce mortality rates in affected children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD) impairs immune function, increasing susceptibility to invasive bacterial infections (IBI).
  • Common pathogens include Streptococcus pneumoniae, nontyphi Salmonella, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).
  • IBI are a leading cause of mortality in young children with SCD, especially in Africa.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the heightened risk of IBI in individuals with SCD.
  • To identify the primary bacterial agents responsible for IBI in this population.
  • To emphasize the impact of IBI on mortality rates in children with SCD.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on SCD and IBI.
  • Analysis of common causative pathogens and risk factors.
  • Evaluation of the effectiveness of diagnostic and preventative strategies.

Main Results:

  • Individuals with SCD exhibit impaired antibody production, opsonophagocytosis, and splenic clearance, contributing to IBI susceptibility.
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) are the most frequent causes of IBI.
  • IBI represent the most common cause of death in SCD children under five.

Conclusions:

  • Early diagnosis of Hib and pneumococcal infections is crucial.
  • Antibiotic prophylaxis and immunization programs can significantly improve outcomes.
  • Implementing these strategies, particularly in Africa, holds potential for substantial mortality reduction in children with SCD.

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