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Zinc deficiency in sickle cell disease
Progress in Clinical and Biological Research
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Zinc supplementation significantly improved growth and body weight in adolescents with sickle cell anemia (SCA). This study highlights zinc
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
Background:
- Zinc deficiency is documented in adult sickle cell anemia (SCA) patients.
- Previous studies showed zinc supplementation improved sexual characteristics, hormone levels, and immune function in SCA subjects.
- Growth retardation is a concern in adolescents with SCA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of zinc supplementation on growth in adolescents with SCA.
- To assess the impact of zinc on longitudinal growth and body weight in this population.
Main Methods:
- A controlled trial was conducted involving 14 to 19-year-old SCA subjects with growth retardation.
- Subjects received zinc supplementation.
- Longitudinal growth and body weight were measured.
Main Results:
- Zinc supplementation led to significant improvements in longitudinal growth.
- Body weight also significantly increased in the supplemented group.
- These findings demonstrate a positive impact of zinc on growth parameters.
Conclusions:
- Zinc supplementation is effective in improving growth and body weight in growth-retarded adolescents with sickle cell anemia.
- This intervention addresses a key complication of SCA in adolescents.
- Further research into optimal zinc dosing and long-term effects is warranted.