Children with sickle cell disease and severe COVID-19 presenting single nucleotide polymorphisms in innate immune

Natália Lima Pessoa1,2, Lilian Martins Oliveira Diniz3,4, Adriana de Souza Andrade2

  • 1Laboratório de Vírus Departamento de Microbiologia Instituto de Ciências Biológicas Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais Belo Horizonte Brazil.

Ejhaem
|April 25, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Severe COVID-19 in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) led to serious complications, including acute chest syndrome and pain crises. Genetic factors like single nucleotide polymorphisms in TLR-7 and TIRAP may influence these severe outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that can increase susceptibility to infections and complications.
  • The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has impacted various patient populations, including those with SCD.
  • Understanding the interplay between SCD, COVID-19, and genetic factors is crucial for managing severe cases in children.

Observation:

  • Three pediatric cases of severe COVID-19 in children with SCD are presented, detailing complications during and after hospitalization.
  • These patients experienced significant SCD-related issues such as acute chest syndrome, splenic sequestration, and pain crises.
  • Genetic analysis revealed single nucleotide polymorphisms in the TLR-7 and TIRAP genes in these children.

Findings:

  • Children with SCD experiencing severe COVID-19 are at high risk for serious complications.
  • Specific genetic variations, including in TLR-7 and TIRAP, were observed in children with SCD and severe COVID-19.
  • These complications necessitated interventions like red blood cell transfusions and specialized hospital care.

Implications:

  • The findings highlight the potential role of genetic factors in the severity of COVID-19 among children with SCD.
  • Early identification and monitoring of genetic predispositions may aid in predicting and managing severe COVID-19 outcomes in pediatric SCD patients.
  • This study underscores the importance of comprehensive care for children with SCD, especially during infectious disease outbreaks.

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