Changes in Haematological and Clinical Parameters in Sickle Cell Disease Patients on Hydroxyurea: A Before and After Non-Experimental Retrospective Study

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) poses a significant health burden globally, particularly in Africa, where prevalence rates are notably high.  Hydroxyurea has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent for managing SCD, yet its effects on clinical outcomes in the Ghanaian  context remain understudied. This retrospective study aimed to investigate changes in clinical and haematological parameters associated  with hydroxyurea use in adolescents and adult patients living with sickle cell disease. A three-level retrospective review was  conducted among 105 patients with sickle cell disease at the Ghana Institute of Clinical Genetics, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Clinical and haematological information was retrieved six months before treatment, six months and 12 months after hydroxyurea therapy. A paired t- test was used to determine changes in haematological parameters before and after hydroxyurea therapy. The findings showed a  significant increase in haemoglobin (Hb) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) at six months. Only Hb increased significantly at 12  months. A significant reduction was observed in white cell count (WBC), platelet and retic count in the 6th month, but the changes from  the 6th month to the 12th month were insignificant. An increase in foetal haemoglobin was observed in one patient at six months.  Hydroxyurea significantly reduced the frequency of vaso-occlusive crises and hospitalisation. Clinicians should educate and recommend   hydroxyurea to patients due to its positive clinical outcome.