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Published on: December 17, 2017
Asthma, allergic sensitization and lung function in sickle cell disease.
Andrea Angel1, Gustavo Falbo Wandalsen2, Dirceu Solé2
1Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil.
Asthma and allergic sensitization are common in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients, increasing the risk of acute chest syndrome and obstructive lung function. Routine pulmonary monitoring is crucial for early intervention in pediatric SCD.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Hematology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Pulmonary disease is a significant complication in sickle cell disease (SCD), contributing to high morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding the interplay between asthma, allergic sensitization, and lung function in pediatric SCD is critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of asthma and allergic sensitization in children with SCD (SS and Sβo).
- To investigate the association between asthma, allergic sensitization, and altered pulmonary function in pediatric SCD patients.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 70 pediatric SCD patients and 44 controls (ages 6-18).
- Utilized the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire, clinical anamnesis, skin prick testing, and spirometry.
- Statistical analysis included parametric and non-parametric tests with significance set at p<0.05.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in asthma or allergic sensitization prevalence between SCD patients and controls.
- Asthmatic SCD patients had a higher incidence of acute chest syndrome annually (p=0.04).
- Obstructive pulmonary function was observed in 30.9% of SCD patients versus 5.4% of controls; asthma and recent wheezing were linked to obstructive patterns (p=0.014, p=0.027).
Conclusions:
- Asthma, allergic sensitization, and lung function abnormalities are prevalent in pediatric SCD.
- Routine monitoring for these conditions is essential for early management and preventing long-term pulmonary complications in adulthood.
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