Sickle Cell Nephropathy (SCN)

Abstract

Sickle Cell Nephropathy (SCN) is a common microvascular renal complication of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). SCD is a non-communicable autosomal recessive haemoglobinopathy of public health significance; mostly in persons of African, Indian, Mediterranean and Middle East descent. It results from the replacement of glutamate for valine in the sixth amino acid of the beta globin chain. Under conditions of tissue hypoxia, Oxidative stress or dehydration, the red cell destruction occurs with Sickling and causing vaso-occlusive episodes with consequent ischaemic multi-organ damage. Acute or Chronic renal involvement can result in Sickle Cell Nephropathy.

Keywords: Sickle Cell Disease, Sickle Cell Nephropathy, Pathophysiology, Clinical presentations, Investigations, Treatment/Management