Recurrent infections in sickle cell disease: haematological and immune studies

Some haematological and immunological indices were compared in 19 children with sickle cell disease and a history of recurrent infections and in 16 children with sickle cell disease without any known infections. The recurrent infection group had significantly greater pitted red cell counts and greater absolute monocyte counts. No differences were apparent in routine haematological indices, foetal haemoglobin, immunoglobulin, or complement levels between the groups. The interpretation of these results is discussed.