Pubertal patterns in children with sickle cell anemia: A case-control study in Cameroon

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Hematology
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Sickle cell anemia (SCA) can negatively impact pubertal development in children.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for managing SCA patients' overall health and well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical and hormonal characteristics of puberty in Cameroonian children with SCA.
• To identify factors associated with delayed puberty in this population.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 64 children (8-18 years) with SCA and matched healthy controls.
• Assessment of physical parameters (height, weight, BMI, body composition, Tanner stages) and hormonal levels (AMH, FSH, LH, sex hormones).
• Statistical analysis using Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon test and multivariate analysis to determine associations between SCA severity and delayed puberty.

Main Results:

• Delayed puberty was observed in 27.3% of girls and 10% of boys with SCA; menarche was delayed by 2 years.
• SCA patients exhibited lower lean body mass (p=0.03) and significantly higher anti-Mullerian hormone levels in boys (p=0.018).
• Severe infections, acute chest syndrome, and low hemoglobin levels correlated with delayed sexual maturation in SCA patients.

Conclusions:

• Children with SCA experience delayed puberty, influenced by disease severity.
• Regular pubertal monitoring is essential during the follow-up care of children with SCA.