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Iron studies in patients with sickle cell disease
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
|March 1, 1981
Summary
Iron deficiency anemia is common in individuals with sickle cell disease (SS and SC hemoglobin). Early decades of life show lower iron levels, suggesting a need for iron supplementation alongside treatment.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Pediatric Hematology
- Nutritional Anemias
Background:
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) encompasses genetic disorders affecting hemoglobin.
- Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent condition globally.
- The interplay between SCD and IDA, particularly in early life, requires detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in patients with SS and SC hemoglobin.
- To analyze iron status parameters across the first three decades of life in these patients.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-five patients with SS and SC hemoglobin were studied.
- Iron status was assessed using hematocrit, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin saturation, and bone marrow iron.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare parameters across age groups and sexes.
Main Results:
- Mean serum iron and transferrin saturation were significantly lower in the first decade compared to later decades.
- Sixty-eight percent of bone marrow aspirates showed no stainable iron.
- Females exhibited distinct serum iron patterns compared to males across the decades.
Conclusions:
- Iron deficiency anemia is a frequent comorbidity in patients with hemoglobin SS and SC.
- The findings support the routine monitoring of iron status in these patients.
- Oral iron supplementation, folic acid, and antimalarials are recommended for managing sickle cell disease.