Effect of Frequent Crises on the Glomerular Filtration Rate of Children with Sickle Cell Anaemia in South- South Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a major childhood problem worldwide that presents with varied clinical manifestations including renal impairments often manifesting with decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

Materials and Methods: This study which was carried out at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital involved children with SCA in steady state and age and gender matched non SCA children who were being treated for minor ailments. It involved the use of questionnaire-based study and estimation of GFR of the children in both groups.

Results: A total of 140 children aged between 1 to 17 years were studied. Thirty-five (50.0%) subjects had three or more crises in the preceeding year while 29 (41.4%) had two or less crises in the preceeding year. Six (8.6%) have never had any crisis before this study. The mean estimated GFR for the subjects was 104.26mls/min/1.73m² while that of controls was 105.94mls/min/1.73m². Twenty-three (32.9%) of the subjects had decreased eGFR (< 90mls/min/1.73m²) compared to eight (11.4%) of the control.

Conclusion; Frequent crises in children with SCA could have long term impact on GFR. Therefore children with SCA should have regular follow up treatment in order to reduce the frequency of crises.