[Evaluation of bone mineral density in children with sickle cell disease]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Hematology
• Bone Metabolism

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder with potential systemic complications.
• Bone mineral density (BMD) assessment is crucial for evaluating skeletal health in chronic pediatric conditions.
• Understanding bone health in children with SCD is vital for long-term management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) in pediatric patients diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SCD).
• To determine the prevalence of normal, low, and osteoporotic BMD in children with SCD.
• To explore potential correlations between BMD and clinical factors like hemoglobin levels and vitamin D.

Main Methods:

• Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured in 40 children (aged 3-16 years) with SCD using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
• Measurements followed guidelines from the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD).
• Statistical analysis included Pearson linear correlation to assess relationships with hemoglobin and vitamin D levels.

Main Results:

• The mean Z-score for BMD was -0.91±1.46.
• Over half (57.5%) of the children had normal BMD (Z-score > -1).
• Low BMD (Z-score -1 to -2) was observed in 25%, and osteoporosis (Z-score < -2) in 17.5%.
• A significant positive correlation was found between Z-score and hemoglobin levels (r=0.368, p=.019).
• No significant correlation was found between BMD and 25(OH) vitamin D levels.

Conclusions:

• A notable proportion of children with SCD exhibit reduced bone mineral density, including osteoporosis.
• Hemoglobin levels appear to be associated with bone mineral density in this cohort.
• Further prospective studies with larger cohorts are necessary to elucidate long-term implications and risk factors.