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Endocrine function and haemoglobinopathies: biochemical assessment of thyroid function in children with sickle-cell

F A Lukanmbi, A A Adeyokunnu, B O Osifo

    African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
    |March 1, 1986
    PubMed

    Insights

    Children with sickle cell disease (HbSS) showed lower mean thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels compared to controls. Other thyroid function tests, including thyroxine and free thyroxine index, were similar across groups.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Endocrinology
    • Hematology
    • Metabolic Disorders

    Background:

    • Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder affecting hemoglobin.
    • Thyroid dysfunction is a potential complication in chronic diseases.
    • Understanding thyroid function in SCD is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate thyroid function in children with sickle cell disease (HbSS) and sickle cell trait (HbAS).
    • To compare thyroid hormone levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) between SCD patients and healthy controls.

    Main Methods:

    • Assessed thyroid function in 90 children with HbSS, 45 with HbAS, and 162 controls (HbAA).
    • Measured serum thyroxine, in vitro triiodothyronine resin uptake, and calculated free thyroxine index.
    • Analyzed serum TSH levels and their distribution across the groups.

    Main Results:

    • No significant differences in thyroxine, triiodothyronine resin uptake, or free thyroxine index among HbSS, HbAS, and HbAA groups.
    • Mean TSH levels were significantly lower in children with HbSS compared to HbAS and HbAA groups.
    • Only 11% of HbSS subjects had TSH values below the 95% confidence limits of HbAA controls.

    Conclusions:

    • Children with sickle cell disease (HbSS) exhibit a significantly lower mean TSH level.
    • Thyroid hormone levels (thyroxine, free thyroxine index) are generally preserved in children with HbSS.
    • Further research may be needed to understand the implications of altered TSH in pediatric SCD.

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