Publication:

Some markers of inflammation in patients with sickle cell disease at Zou-Collines departmental hospital in Benin

Background Sickle cell disease was a genetic pathology of the red blood cell, which caused systemic functional and tissue damage. The present work aimed to study some biomarkers of inflammation and renal function in sickle cell patients.

Methods The biochemical and inflammatory markers were assayed with a spectrophotometer and the hemogram was performed on a hematology analyzer in SS homozygous sickle cell subjects and controls with AA phenotypes.

Results The male sex (63.49%) and the age group 5-18 years (58.73%) were predominant among the SS subjects of the study population. Blood urea and serum creatinine were significantly higher in SS, suggesting impaired renal function. Serum uric acid was significantly lower in SS. Aspartate transaminase (AST) was significantly higher in SS and alanine transaminase (ALT) did not change significantly, indicating significant cytolysis. Mean hemoglobin level was significantly lower in SS, signifying more hemolysis. The mean number of blood leukocytes, neutrophils, eosinophilia, lymphocytes and monocytes were significantly higher in SS. There was the same for C-reactive protein, the concentration of which was very high (96 mg/l) in 34.92% of sickle cell patients against 1.75% in AA, indicating an inflammatory state in sickle cell disease. In contrast, the mean number of blood platelets was significantly lower in SS.

Conclusions During sickle cell disease, there were inflammation, cytolysis and disturbance of renal function as well as anemia. The early evaluation of these biological markers may prevent complications and crises of sickle cell disease.