Effect of Hydroxyurea Therapy on Growth Parameters in Older Children (6-15 Year-Old) with Sickle Cell Disease: Low...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Hematology
• Growth and Development
• Pharmacological Effects

Background:

• Growth impairment is a recognized complication in children with sickle cell disease (SCD).
• Limited research exists on the specific impact of hydroxyurea (HU) dosage and response on growth parameters in pediatric SCD patients.
• Understanding HU's effect on growth is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of hydroxyurea (HU) on growth parameters (weight, height, BMI) in children with SCD.
• To correlate HU's impact on growth with clinical improvement and dosage.
• To compare growth outcomes against WHO standards.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving 91 children with SCD under 16 years old initiating HU therapy.
• Collection of anthropometric data (weight, height, BMI Z-scores) at baseline, 6, and 18 months.
• Comparison of anthropometric data with World Health Organization (WHO) standards and analysis of dose-dependent effects.

Main Results:

• Initial height and BMI Z-scores were below WHO norms but did not significantly change after 6 or 18 months of HU therapy.
• A significant improvement in BMI Z-scores was observed at 6 and 18 months (p<0.05).
• Low-dose HU showed a significant improvement in BMI Z-scores after 18 months, whereas high-dose HU did not yield significant changes in BMI, height, or weight Z-scores.

Conclusions:

• Hydroxyurea (HU) therapy is safe concerning weight and height growth in older children with SCD.
• BMI Z-scores demonstrated improvement at 18 months, particularly in the low-dose HU group, suggesting a potential benefit.
• Further research may elucidate optimal HU dosing strategies to maximize growth benefits in pediatric SCD patients.