Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2026
07:24
A Precision Medicine Tool for Measurement and Monitoring of Hemoglobin S in Sickle Cell Disease Patients Receiving Transfusion Therapy
1.7K
SICKLE CELL RETINOPATHY LOST TO FOLLOW-UP STUDY
Jovi C Y Wong1, Meera D Sivalingam2, Matthew Griffin2
1Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada ; and.
Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|December 11, 2024
Summary
Patients with sickle cell retinopathy who miss appointments (lost to follow-up) experience worse vision outcomes. Regular follow-up care is crucial for maintaining visual acuity in sickle cell retinopathy patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Sickle cell retinopathy is a complication of sickle cell disease affecting the eyes.
- Regular monitoring is essential for managing retinal complications and preserving vision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare visual outcomes in patients with sickle cell retinopathy who were lost to follow-up versus those who attended all appointments.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of adult patients with sickle cell retinopathy (2012-2021).
- Defined lost to follow-up (LTFU) as missing an appointment by >6 months.
- Compared visual acuity (VA) between groups and time points.
Main Results:
- 46% of patients experienced at least one LTFU event, with a mean duration of 470 days.
- The LTFU group had significantly worse final VA compared to their pre-LTFU visit.
- The attended group showed improved final VA compared to their initial visit.
Conclusions:
- Patients with sickle cell retinopathy who experience LTFU events have poorer visual outcomes.
- Consistent follow-up care is vital for better visual prognosis in sickle cell retinopathy.
