Hot cross bun in pediatric age multi-system atrophy an unusual presentation

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited autosomal recessive haemoglobinopathy. Sickle cell beta thalassemia is a variant syndrome of SCD characterised by the compound heterozygosity for sickle and beta thalassemia genes. We present a case of 12 year old male child diagnosed case of sickle cell thalassemia at the age of 2 years with complaints of fever, yellowish discolouration of eyes and drowsiness. USG abdomen was done suggestive of splenomegaly, multiple ill-defined, heterogeneously hypo-echoic, areas scattered throughout the splenic parenchyma with no vascularity within likely representing as splenic micro-abscesses. Child was started on antibiotics covering anaerobic and gram-positive organisms (vancomycin, meropenem, amikacin and metronidazole). Currently child is doing well with huge relieve to his symptoms.

Doença falciforme e o efeito modulador da vitamina D em crianças: uma revisão integrativa / Sickle cell disease and the modulating effect of vitamin D in children: an integrative review

INTRODUÇÃO: A deficiência de Vitamina D (VD) é frequente na doença falciforme (DF) em decorrência do status inflamatório crônico, danos renais, endoteliais, hiperhemólise e melanodermia. Atualmente, a suplementação desse nutriente em falcêmicos tem se mostrado importante devido sua ação sistêmica e imunológica. OBJETIVOS: Analisar o impacto da VD em crianças com DF. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, onde foram analisados estudos, publicados originalmente em inglês e português, dos últimos dez anos, em humanos, tendo como referência as bases de dados MEDLINE, SciELO e LILACS. A busca foi efetuada mediante a consulta ao MeSH. Os descritores utilizados foram: "children"; "vitamin D"; "sickle cell anemia"; "supplementation". Foram identificados 32 artigos a partir da frase de pesquisa. Ao aplicar os critérios de inclusão, nove artigos foram eleitos para o estudo. RESULTADOS: A partir da análise dos artigos incluídos, 6 avaliaram a prevalência da deficiência de VD em crianças com anemia falciforme e os outros três artigos relataram sobre a suplementação de VD em crianças também com anemia falciforme. Todos os estudos mostraram que as crianças tratadas com reposição de VD tiveram uma diminuição de idas ao pronto-socorro e maior estabilidade hemodinâmica durante os tratamentos. CONCLUSÃO: Outros ensaios clínicos randomizados devem ser realizados para identificar o papel da DV na qualidade de vida e na redução da morbidade falciforme. A contribuição deste artigo é reconhecer que há evidências sobre a vitamina D fora dos ensaios clínicos randomizados.

INTRODUCTION: Vitamin D (VD) deficiency is frequent in sickle cell disease (SCD) due to chronic inflammatory status, kidney and endothelial damage, hyperhemolysis and melanoderma. Currently, the supplementation of this nutrient in sickle cell patients is important due to its systemic and immunological action. Objectives: To analyze the impact of VD in children with SCD. METHODS: This is an integrative literature review, which analyzed studies, originally published in English and Portuguese, in the last ten years, in humans, using the MedLine, SciELO and LILACS databases as References. The search was performed by consulting the MeSH. The descriptors used were: "children"; "vitamin D"; "sickle cell anemia"; "supplementation". 32 articles were identified from the search phrase. When applying the inclusion criteria, nine articles were chosen for the study. RESULTS: Among the included articles, six evaluated the prevalence of VD deficiency in children with sickle cell anemia, and the other three reported on VD supplementation in children with sickle cell anemia. All studies showed that children treated with VD replacement had a decrease in emergency room visits and greater hemodynamic stability during treatments. CONCLUSION: Further randomized controlled trials should be carried out to identify the role of VD in quality of life and in the reduction of sickle cell morbidity. The contribution of this paper is to recognize that there is evidence about vitamin D outside of randomized controlled trials.

Colestasis intrahepática drepanocítica a propósito de un casoy revisión de la literatura / Sickle cell intrahepatic cholestasis regarding a case and reviewof the literature

La enfermedad de células falciformes (ECF) o anemia drepanocítica, es el trastorno hereditario más frecuente en los glóbulos rojos, y la enfermedad con más complicaciones en diferentes órganos, lo que provoca múltiples presentaciones de una misma enfermedad., se hace revisión literatura sobre ECF y colestasis intrahepática drepanocítica, y se describe un caso presentado en el Hospital General y de Especialidades Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia de Higüey Republica Dominicana en el año 2022. Es un varón de 24 años, con diagnóstico de ECF, que se complicó con una colestasis intrahepática drepanocítica muy severa que se manejó con hemodiálisis. El objetivo de publicar este caso es revisar la información respecto a la incidencia y la morbimortalidad de esta complicación, teniendo en cuenta que fue tratado por un equipo multidisciplinario usando la hemodiálisis como alternativa terapéutica(AU)

Sickle cell disease (SCD) or sickle cell anemia is the most common hereditary disorder in red blood cells, and the disease with the most complications in different organs, which causes multiple presentations of the same disease. Literature review on SCD is made and sickle cell intrahepatic cholestasis,and a case presented at the Hospital General y de Especialidades Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia de Higüey in the Dominican Republic in 2022 is described. Very severe sickle cell intrahepatic disease that was managed with hemodialysis. The purpose of publishing this case is to review the information regarding the incidence and morbidity and mortality of this complication,taking into account that it was treated by a multidisciplinary team using hemodialysis as a therapeutic alternative(AU)

Sickle cell anemia: hierarchical cluster analysis and clinical profile in a cohort in Brazil

Abstract Introduction Sickle cell anemia is a monogenic disorder caused by a mutation in the β-hemoglobin gene, resulting in sickle hemoglobin that can polymerize. Presentation and clinical course have significant inter-individual variability and classifying these patients for severity is a challenge. Methods We applied hierarchical clusters with 10 routine laboratory tests to understand if this grouping could be associated with clinical manifestations. We included 145 adult homozygous patients (SS) at an outpatient clinic in a retrospective study. Results We found five clusters by counting those that had been differentiated by unconjugated bilirubin, reticulocytes, LDH, leukocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes. When comparing groups to clinical findings, the clusters were different only for liver abnormality. Cluster 3 had the lower median of reticulocytes, LDH, leukocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes and a higher percentage of patients under treatment. Clusters 4 and 5 had higher frequencies of liver impairment and higher medians of reticulocytes, LDH, leukocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes. Hemolysis and inflammation seemed to influence the grouping. Conclusion In our study, cluster analysis showed five groups that exhibited different degrees of inflammation and hemolysis. When comparing clinical data, the result was different only for the criteria of liver abnormality.

Impacto de la rehabilitación neuropsicológica computarizada en un paciente con anemia de células falciformes y TDAH. Estudio experimental de caso único

Introducción: La anemia de células falciformes (ACF) es una enfermedad genética que provoca una malformación en el glóbulo rojo, volviéndolo más frágil y desencadenando su lisis. Por su forma anómala predispone a eventos oclusivos en vasos de menor tamaño, incluyendo aquellos en el sistema nervioso central. La literatura documenta presencia de infartos cerebrales silentes y no silentes asociados a ACF, con sus respectivas alteraciones cognitivas. En los últimos años se ha reportado que existe compromiso cognitivo y mayor presencia de trastornos del neurodesarrollo, como el trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad (TDAH) en aquellos niños con ACF que aún no han tenido eventos cerebrales isquémicos. Método: Se llevó a cabo un estudio experimental y prospectivo de caso único, que consistió en un programa de rehabilitación por medio de la plataforma de entrenamiento cognitivo para la atención y concentración de CogniFit. Durante 45 sesiones, se realizaron mediciones de respuestas en atención y control inhibitorio, utilizando la Batería de Evaluación Cognitiva para la Atención (CAB-AT). Resultados: Se observó que la intervención tuvo un impacto significativo en el componente de atención, el cual se mantuvo por encima de la línea de base, incluso después de suspender la intervención. Sin embargo, no se encontró un impacto importante en el control inhibitorio. Conclusión: Aunque la intervención mejoró la atención, no lo hizo con el control inhibitorio. Se recomienda complementar la rehabilitación con manejo farmacológico y diseñar nuevos estudios con poblaciones heterogéneas.

Introduction: Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a genetic disease that causes a malformation in red blood cells, making them more fragile and leading to their lysis. Due to their abnormal shape, they predispose to occlusive events in smaller blood vessels, including those in the central nervous system. Literature documents the presence of silent and non-silent cerebral infarctions associated with SCA, along with respective cognitive impairments. In recent years, cognitive impairment and a higher prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been reported in children with SCA who have not experienced ischemic brain events. Method: An experimental and prospective single-case study was conducted, consisting of a rehabilitation program using the CogniFit platform for cognitive training in attention and concentration. Measurements of attention and inhibitory control responses were taken during 45 sessions, using the Cognitive Assessment Battery for Attention (CAB-AT). Results: It was observed that the intervention had a significant impact on the attention component, which remained above the baseline even after discontinuing the intervention. However, no significant impact was found on inhibitory control. Conclusion: Although the intervention improved attention, it did not have the same effect on inhibitory control. Complementing rehabilitation with pharmacological management and designing new studies involving heterogeneous populations are recommended.

Knowledge and practice of nursing in sickle cell disease and hemoglobinopathies in primary care / Conocimiento y práctica de enfermería en el cuidado de la enfermedad de células falciformes y hemoglobinopatías en la atención primaria / Conhecimento e prática de enfermagem no atendimento à doença falciforme e hemoglobinopatias na atenção primária

ABSTRACT Objective: to investigate the level of knowledge of nurses in Basic Health Units and their engagement in monitoring patients with sickle cell disease and other hemoglobinopathies. Methods: this is a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory study, carried out with 12 nurses from basic health units in the municipality of Santa Luzia/Minas Gerais between August 2018 and February 2019. The semi-structured interview was the technique used for data collection, which was analyzed using Content Analysis. Results: the analysis of the interviews emerged in the construction of three categories: understanding of sickle cell disease, risk factors, and alterations on physical examination; nursing care at the health unit according to the recommendation of the Ministry of Health; obstacles and facilitators for the tracking and identification of patients. Discourse analysis highlighted: the outstanding presence of misconceptions regarding sickle cell disease; the absence of effective follow-up of patients in the area covered by the nurse; and the non-existence of a positive sickle cell disease patient link with primary care. Conclusion: although nursing plays a fundamental role in monitoring and assisting patients with sickle cell disease, the study revealed a significant gap between care recommendations and practice in basic health units.

RESUMEN Objetivo: investigar el nivel de conocimiento de los enfermeros de las Unidades Básicas de Salud y su participación en el seguimiento de pacientes con enfermedad de células falciformes y otras hemoglobinopatías. Método: se trata de un estudio cualitativo descriptivo-exploratorio, realizado con 12 enfermeros de unidades básicas de salud de la ciudad de Santa Luzia/Minas Gerais entre agosto de 2018 y febrero de 2019. La entrevista semiestructurada fue la técnica utilizada para la recolección de datos, que fueron analizados mediante el Análisis de Contenido. Resultados: el análisis de las entrevistas emergió en la construcción de tres categorías: comprensión sobre la enfermedad de células falciformes, factores de riesgo y alteraciones en el examen físico; atención de enfermería en la unidad de salud según recomendación del Ministerio de salud; obstáculos y facilitadores para el seguimiento e identificación de pacientes. El análisis del discurso destacó: la marcada presencia de conceptos erróneos en relación con la enfermedad de células falciformes; la falta de seguimiento efectivo de los pacientes en el área cubierta por la enfermera; y la inexistencia de un vínculo positivo entre el paciente y la enfermedad células falciformes con atención primaria. Conclusiones: si bien la enfermería tiene un papel fundamental en la conducción del seguimiento y atención de los pacientes con enfermedad de células falciformes, el estudio reveló una brecha significativa entre las recomendaciones de atención y la práctica en las unidades básicas de salud.

RESUMO Objetivos: investigar o nível de conhecimento dos enfermeiros das Unidades Básicas de Saúde e o engajamento destes no acompanhamento de pacientes com doença falciforme e outras hemoglobinopatias. Métodos: este é um estudo qualitativo descritivo-exploratório, realizado com 12 enfermeiros de unidades básicas de saúde do município de Santa Luzia/Minas Gerais entre agosto de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019. A entrevista semiestruturada foi a técnica utilizada para coleta de dados, as quais foram analisadas usando a Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados a análise das entrevistas emergiu na construção de três categorias: compreensão sobre a doença falciforme, fatores de risco e alterações ao exame físico; assistência do enfermeiro na unidade de saúde segundo a recomendação do Ministério da Saúde; dificultadores e facilitadores para o rastreamento e identificação dos pacientes. A análise do discurso destacou: a presença marcante de conceitos equivocados em relação à doença falciforme; a ausência de acompanhamento efetivo dos pacientes da área de abrangência do enfermeiro; e a não existência de vínculo entre paciente com doença falciforme positivo e a atenção básica ou uma lacuna significativa entre as recomendações de cuidado e a prática nas unidades básicas de saúde. Conclusão: embora a enfermagem desempenhe um papel fundamental no monitoramento e na assistência aos pacientes com doença falciforme, o estudo revelou uma lacuna significativa entre as recomendações de cuidados e a prática nas unidades básicas de saúde.

Systematic review: interventions in sickle cell disease-related priapism in reducing overall morbidity, recurrence, and side effects / Revisión sistemática: intervenciones en priapismo relacionado con enfermedad de células falciformes (ECF), en reducción de morbilidad, recurrencia y efectos secundarios

Pediatric priapism is a rare, underreported urological emergency. Sickle cell disease (SCD)-related priapism cases should be assessed considering specific pathophysiologic characteristics. Chronic control of the disease has an impact on a patient's quality of life. A systematic review in different databases was done, for defining if management in All-type priapism in SCD patients was equally effective in reducing overall morbidity, disability and comorbidities, recurrence, and therapy-related side effects. Qualitative analysis was performed. Nine studies were included in the study; the majority were case series, and 300 patients were included in the analysis. The interventions and outcomes were clinically heterogeneous but displayed perspectives for further studies. This is the first analysis approach for a consensus for SCD-related priapism treatment. Studies with internal validity and causality designs are needed, to evaluate further causality relationships and establish evidence-based approaches. Etilefrine, Pseudoephedrine/etilefrine-5 inhibitors, and finasteride are promising strategies. Quality of life scores should be applied to these patients, and molecular studies should be developed for pharmacological designs.

El priapismo pediátrico es una entidad poco común, sin embargo, es una urgencia urológica infranotificada. Los casos de priapismo relacionados con enfermedad de células falciformes (ECF) deben evaluarse teniendo en cuenta características fisiopatológicas específicas. El control crónico de la enfermedad tiene impacto en la calidad de vida del paciente. Se realizó una revisión sistemática en diferentes bases de datos, para definir si las intervenciones en pacientes con priapismo de todo tipo relacionado con ECF fueron igualmente efectivas en la reducción de morbilidad general, discapacidad, comorbilidades, recurrencia y efectos secundarios relacionados con la terapia. Se realizó un análisis cualitativo de nueve estudios; la mayoría series de casos, para un total de 300 pacientes. Las intervenciones y los resultados fueron clínicamente heterogéneos, pero mostraron perspectivas para futuros estudios. Este es el primer análisis de información para llegar a un consenso para el tratamiento del priapismo relacionado con la ECF. La perspectiva principal es la necesidad de estudios con validez interna y diseños elaborados para profundizar las relaciones de causalidad y el abordaje basado en la evidencia de esta condición. La etilefrina, los inhibidores de la PDE-5 y la finasterida son estrategias prometedoras. Se deben aplicar puntajes de calidad de vida a estos pacientes y se deben desarrollar estudios moleculares para diseños farmacológicos.

Social inequalities in the temporal trend of mortality from sickle cell disease in Brazil, 1996-2019 / Desigualdades sociais na tendência temporal de mortalidade por doença falciforme no Brasil, 1996-2019 / Desigualdades sociales en la tendencia temporal de la mortalidad por enfermedad de células falciformes en Brasil, 1996-2019

Contrary to international trends, the mortality rate of sickle cell disease increased in Brazil after the implementation of the neonatal screening program, probably due to improving access to diagnosis. This study aimed to assess differences in the temporal trend of the mortality rate and median age at death from sickle cell disease in Brazil, considering implemented measures to expand diagnosis, and improve health care access in-country and in the international scenario. Time series were extracted from the Brazilian Mortality Information System from 1996 to 2019. Changes in the mortality rate and median age at death were verified via segmented regression models, which were stratified by sex, region of residence, and age. Most deaths occurred in non-white people, young adults, and the Southeast and Northeast population. Sickle cell disease mortality rate increased until 2010 (13.31%; 95%CI: 6.37; 20.70), particularly in individuals aged 30 years or more (12.78%; 95%CI: 2.98; 23.53) and in the Northeast (12.27%; 95%CI: 8.92; 15.72). Most deaths occurred in the second decade of life (3.01 deaths/million), with a 59% increase in the median age of death in Brazil, from 27.6 to 30.3 years, more pronounced in females and the North Region. The observed gain in the survival of sickle cell disease in Brazil is still much lower than in developed countries and presents regional disparities, probably due to the lack of access to health care and recent treatments, such as hydroxyurea, still restricted to hematological referral centers in Brazilian capitals.

Ao contrário dos estudos internacionais, houve um aumento da taxa de mortalidade por doença falciforme no Brasil após a implantação do programa de triagem neonatal, provavelmente devido à melhoria do acesso ao diagnóstico. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as diferenças na tendência temporal da taxa de mortalidade por doença falciforme e idade mediana ao morrer no Brasil, considerando as medidas implementadas para ampliar o diagnóstico e melhorar o acesso à saúde no país e no cenário internacional. As séries temporais foram extraídas do Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade de 1996 a 2019. Mudanças na magnitude da taxa de mortalidade e na idade mediana ao morrer foram verificadas via modelos de regressão segmentada, estratificados por sexo, região de residência e idade. A maioria dos óbitos ocorreu entre jovens, pretos ou pardos, e habitantes das regiões Sudeste e Nordeste. Houve um aumento da taxa de mortalidade por doença falciforme até 2010 (13,31%; IC95%: 6,37; 20,70), especialmente em indivíduos com 30 anos ou mais (12,78%; IC95%: 2,98; 23,53) e habitantes do Nordeste (12,27%; IC95%: 8,92; 15,72). A maioria dos óbitos ocorreu durante a segunda década de vida (3,01 óbitos/milhão), com um aumento de 59% na idade mediana ao morrer no Brasil (de 27,6 para 30,3 anos), mais acentuada entre mulheres e na Região Norte. O aumento observado na sobrevivência da doença falciforme no Brasil ainda é muito menor do que em países desenvolvidos e com disparidades regionais, provavelmente pela falta de acesso aos serviços de saúde e aos tratamentos recentes, como a hidroxiureia, que ainda é restrita aos centros de referência hematológicos das capitais brasileiras.

A diferencia de los estudios internacionales, en Brasil se produjo un aumento de la tasa de mortalidad por enfermedad de células falciformes tras la implantación del programa de tamizaje neonatal, probablemente debido a la mejora del acceso al diagnóstico. El objetivo del estudio es determinar las diferencias en la tendencia temporal de la tasa de mortalidad y la edad media de muerte por enfermedad de células falciformes en Brasil, teniendo en cuenta las medidas implementadas para ampliar el diagnóstico y mejorar el acceso a la atención sanitaria en el país y en el escenario internacional. Las series temporales fueron extraídas del Sistema de Información sobre de Mortalidad de 1996 a 2019. Los cambios en la magnitud de la tasa de mortalidad y la edad media de la muerte se identificaron con modelos de regresión segmentados, estratificados por sexo, región de residencia y edad. La mayoría de las muertes ocurrieron en personas de color, adultos jóvenes y los habitantes del sureste y noreste. Hubo un aumento de la tasa de mortalidad por enfermedad de células falciformes hasta 2010 (13,31%; IC95%: 6,37; 20,70), sobre todo en individuos de 30 años o más (12,78%; IC95%: 2,98; 23,53) y en el Noreste (12,27%; IC95%: 8,92; 15,72). La mayoría de las muertes ocurrió en la segunda década de la vida (3,01 muertes/millón), con un aumento del 59% en la edad media de muerte en Brasil, de 27,6 a 30,3 años, más pronunciado en las mujeres y en el Norte. La ganancia observada en la supervivencia de la enfermedad de células falciformes en Brasil es todavía muy inferior a la de los países desarrollados y con disparidades regionales, probablemente debido a la falta de acceso a la asistencia sanitaria y a los tratamientos recientes, como la hidroxiurea, todavía restringidos a los centros de referencia hematológica de las capitales brasileñas.

Conhecimento de enfemeiras sobre a criança com doença falciforme / Conocimiento de enfemeiras sobre el niño con enfermedad falciforme / Knowledge of nurses about children with sickle cell disease

Objetivo: conhecer a percepção das enfermeiras sobre a criança com doença falciforme. Método: pesquisa qualitativa Convergente-Assistencial, ocorrida em hospital público pediátrico, da qual participaram 12 enfermeiras da emergência no período de julho de 2020 a abril de 2021, após submissão ao Comitê de Ética. As técnicas de coleta de dados foram: sondagem do conhecimento por entrevista semiestruturada, grupos de convergência e observação participante. Os dados foram analisados conforme referencial da Pesquisa Convergente-Assistencial e suas fases, sendo elas concepção, instrumentalização, teorização, transferência e análise. Resultados: as enfermeiras reconheceram a doença pela principal manifestação clínica, a crise álgica, a qual foi citada como característica marcante da criança com doença falciforme. Considerações finais: as enfermeiras atuantes na emergência pediátrica conhecem alguns aspectos da doença falciforme e revelaram conhecimento incipiente sobre a fisiopatologia da doença.

Objetivo: conocer la percepción de las enfermeras sobre el niño con enfermedad falciforme. Método: Investigación cualitativa Convergente-Asistencial, ocurrida en hospital público pediátrico, de la cual participaron 12 enfermeras de la emergencia en el período de julio de 2020 a abril de 2021, tras sumisión al Comité de Ética. Las técnicas de recolección de datos fueron: sondeo del conocimiento por entrevista semiestructurada, grupos de convergencia y observación participante. Los datos fueron analizados conforme referencial de la Investigación Convergente-Asistencial y sus fases, siendo ellas concepción, instrumentalización, teorización, transferencia y análisis. Resultados: las enfermeras reconocieron la enfermedad por la principal manifestación clínica, la crisis álgica, la cual fue citada como característica distintiva del niño con enfermedad falciforme. Consideraciones finales: las enfermeras que actúan en la emergencia pediátrica conocen algunos aspectos de la enfermedad falciforme y revelaron conocimiento incipiente sobre la fisiopatología de la enfermedad.

Objective: to know the perception of nurses about the child with sickle cell disease. Method: qualitative Convergent-Care research, occurred in a public pediatric hospital, in which 12 emergency nurses participated from July 2020 to April 2021, after submission to the Ethics Committee. The data collection techniques were: survey of knowledge by semi-structured interview, convergence groups and participant observation. The data were analyzed according to the referential of the Convergent-Care Research and its phases, being them conception, instrumentalization, theorization, transfer and analysis. Results: the nurses recognized the disease by the main clinical manifestation, the pain crisis, which was cited as a striking characteristic of the child with sickle cell disease. Final considerations: the nurses working in the pediatric emergency know some aspects of sickle cell disease and revealed incipient knowledge about the pathophysiology of the disease.

Knowledge and Attitude of Adult Saudi Community towards Premarital Screening Program (Sickle Cell Anemia/Thalassemia) in Riyadh Province of Saudi Arabia

Background: Premarital Screening (PMS) program in Saudi Arabia aims at limiting the spread of hereditary diseases like Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA) and Thalassemia and infectious diseases like Hepatitis B&C and Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Although the PMS program is reducing the percentage of incompatible marriages, the prevalence of hemoglobinopathies is still remaining high. With the changing perception of the general population towards the PMS program, an examination of community awareness and attitude toward PM S is needed to find ways for reducing the prevalence of diseases. Objective : T o assess the present knowledge and attitude of the adult Saudi community from Riyadh Province to the premarital screening (PMS) program for hemoglobinopathies. Methods: This cros s - sectional study was conducted on 676 participants from the general population in June - September 2022. The electronic questionnaire was used to assess the sociodemographic data, knowledge, and attitude toward the PMS program. Results: Out of the 676 participants, 58% were females, and 42% were males. 54% had consanguineous marriages and 5.6% hemoglobinopathies in the family. 96.3% agreed on suggesting PMS to others, 83.2% considered PMS incompatible marriage is wrong, and 78.6% considered associated g enetic counselling is important. 22.7% preferred consanguineous marriage over non - consanguineous. For raising awareness, 97.6%, 85.9%, 84.6%, and 81.2% of respondents felt the need for community participation through the internet, social media, and medical education in schools respectively. Conclusion: Most participants have a positive attitude but only superficial knowledge of the PMS program and one - third are still unaware of its use for the prevention of hemoglobinopathies, especially thalassemia. Increa sing the knowledge about the importance of the PMS program and associated genetic counselling should be done with multiple information sources in a well - organized way that suits the community’s requirements.

Estimación del filtrado glomerular por valores séricos de creatinina y cistatina C en adultos con drepanocitosis / Estimation of glomerular filtration rate using serum creatinine and cystatin C in adults with sickle cell anemia

Introducción: La estimación del filtrado glomerular a partir de la concentración sérica de creatinina en pacientes con drepanocitosis, es anormal cuando hay un deterioro extenso de la función renal. Objetivos: Evaluar la estimación del filtrado glomerular con el uso de creatinina, de cistatina C y de ambas determinaciones, en adultos con drepanocitosis. Métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transversal. Se incluyeron 44 adultos con drepanocitosis en quienes se estimó el filtrado glomerular, con el uso de creatinina, de cistatina C y de ambas, según las fórmulas de CDK-EPI. Resultados: Se encontraron discrepancias en el filtrado glomerular estimado por creatinina, por cistatina C y por ambas (medias: 112,2 ± 28,4; 55,7 ± 23,1 y 75,1 ± 24,7 mL/min/ 1,73 m2; respectivamente). Los porcentajes más elevados de pacientes con hiperfiltración por creatinina corresponden al genotipo SS y todos los que tiene enfermedad renal crónica en estadio 4 (filtrado estimado por cistatina C y mediante la combinación de ambos marcadores), tienen este tipo de hemoglobinopatía. La hiperfiltración fue más común en los más jóvenes y la disminución del filtrado en los mayores de 40 años. Conclusiones: La estimación del filtrado glomerular muestra diferencias entre los tres métodos estudiados. Con el uso de creatinina está sobrestimado y una elevada proporción de pacientes son clasificados como con hiperfiltración. El uso de la cistatina C o la combinación de ambas determinaciones, pudieran ofrecer una estimación más exacta del filtrado glomerular en pacientes con drepanocitosis(AU)

Introduction: The estimation of the glomerular filtration rate from the serum concentration of creatinine in patients with sickle cell disease is abnormal when there is an extensive deterioration of renal function. Objective: To estimate the glomerular filtration rate with the use of creatinine, cystatin C and both determinations, in adults with sickle cell disease. Determine if there are differences between these methods. Methods: Observational, descriptive cross-sectional study. Forty-four adults with sickle cell disease were included in whom the glomerular filtration rate was estimated using creatinine, cystatin C and both, according to the CDK-EPI formulas. Results: Discrepancies were found in the glomerular filtration rate estimated by creatinine, by cystatin C and by both (means: 112.2 ± 28.4; 55.7 ± 23.1 and 75.1 ± 24.7 mL/min/1.73 m2; respectively). The highest percentages of patients with creatinine hyperfiltration correspond to the SS genotype and all those with stage 4 chronic kidney disease (estimated filtration by cystatin C and by the combination of both markers), have this type of hemoglobinopathy. Hyperfiltration was more common in the youngest and decreased filtration in those older than 40 years. Conclusions: The estimation of the glomerular filtration rate shows differences between the three methods studied. With the use of creatinine, it is overestimated and a high proportion of patients are classified as having hyperfiltration. The use of cystatin C or the combination of both determinations could offer a more accurate estimate of glomerular filtration rate in patients with sickle cell disease(AU)

Prevención de hemoglobinopatías en el Policlínico 28 de septiembre, municipio Santiago de Cuba / Hemoglobinopathy Prevention in 28 de Septiembre Outpatient Polyclinic, of Santiago de Cuba Municipality

Introducción: La anemia de células falciformes es un defecto funcional que afecta la hemoglobina, tiene carácter hereditario y una elevada frecuencia en la población cubana. Objetivo: Caracterizar el programa de prevención de hemoglobinopatías en el Policlínico 28 de septiembre, municipio Santiago de Cuba. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo de corte longitudinal en 6055 gestantes, estudiadas por electroforesis de hemoglobina o cuya condición era conocida con anterioridad durante el período enero 2011 a diciembre 2020 hemoglobinopatías en el Policlínico 28 de septiembre del municipio Santiago de Cuba. Se analizaron las variantes de hemoglobinas, su frecuencia, la proporción de esposos estudiados, parejas de alto riesgo detectadas, diagnósticos prenatales realizados y sus resultados. Se utilizó la estadística descriptiva para el análisis de los datos. Resultados: De las gestantes, 7,18 por ciento resultó portadora de alguna variante de hemoglobina. Se logró estudiar 92,64 por ciento de los cónyuges, donde el aborto resultó la causa más significativa de no estudio. Se detectaron 27 parejas de alto riesgo, fueron realizados 22 diagnósticos prenatales (81,50 por ciento) y se diagnosticaron cuatro fetos portadores de hemoglobinopatía SS por estudio molecular, cuyos progenitores optaron por la terminación de la gestación en el marco del asesoramiento genético. Conclusiones: La caracterización del programa de hemoglobina en gestantes nos permitió identificar la frecuencia de portadoras dentro del grupo estudiado, así como la efectividad del asesoramiento genético ofrecido a las parejas de alto riesgo en el primer nivel de atención al no reportarse nacidos vivos con la enfermedad en el área de salud durante el decenio(AU)

Introduction: Sickle cell anemia is a functional defect that affects hemoglobin. It is of a hereditary nature and highly frequent among the Cuban population. Objective: To characterize the hemoglobinopathies prevention program in 28 de Septiembre outpatient Polyclinic, of Santiago de Cuba Municipality. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal study was carried out, during the period from January 2011 to December 2020, with 6055 pregnant women, studied by hemoglobin electrophoresis or whose condition was previously known. The hemoglobin variants, their frequency, the proportion of studied spouses, the identified high-risk couples, the performed prenatal diagnoses and their results were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: Of the pregnant women, 7.18 percent presented some hemoglobin variant. It was possible to study 92.64 percent of the spouses, while abortion was the most significant unstudied cause. Twenty-seven high-risk couples were identified, 22 prenatal diagnoses were performed (81.50 percent), and four fetuses were diagnosed, by molecular study, to present sickle cell anemia as a hemoglobinopathy, whose parents opted for pregnancy termination within the framework of genetic counseling. Conclusions: The characterization of the hemoglobin program in pregnant women allowed us to identify the frequency of carriers within the studied group, as well as the effectiveness of genetic counseling offered to high-risk couples at the first level of care, since no live births were reported with the disease in the health area during the decade(AU)

Cobertura de tejidos blandos en una lesión por aplastamiento de la mano en paciente con anemia de células falciformes

Se presenta el caso de una lesión por aplastamiento de la mano derecha en un paciente con historia clínica de anemia de células falciformes. Se realizó la reconstrucción con un colgajo de ingle, seguido de un colgajo de arteria interósea posterior y un colgajo anterolateral de muslo. El tratamiento de estas lesiones es complejo debido a la necesidad de tejidos blandos especializados, difíciles de reproducir para grandes defectos de la palma de la mano; además el grado de desarrollo de tejido cicatricial conduce a contracturas y dificultades en el uso funcional de la mano y los dedos. Este caso se agravó por el historial de anemia de células falciformes del paciente.

We report the case of a crush injury to the right hand in a patient with a clinical history of sickle cell anemia. Reconstruction was performed with a groin flap, followed by a posterior interosseous artery flap and an anterolateral thigh flap. The treatment of these injuries was complex due to the need for specialized soft tissues, which are difficult to reproduce for large defects in the palm of the hand. In addition, the degree of development of scar tissue leads to contractures and difficulties in the functional use of the hand and fingers. This case was aggravated by the patient's history of sickle cell anemia.

Clinical Evaluation of T-AYU-HM Premium in Sickle cell Anemia Patients: A Retrospective Study

Background: The orphan status of sickle cell invites many researchers toward drug development in the past decade. A substantial number of clinical trials either understudies or in the planning stage focused on sickle cell disease. Sickle cell traits are often considered asymptomatic and the silent condition is associated with diverse complications. Objective: To clinically evaluate the safety and effectiveness of T-AYU-HM Premium Tablets (300mg) in sickle cell anemia patients: an observational retrospective study Methodology: This is a single-arm case-control retrospective study of sickle cell trait patients admitted to Dhanvantari Clinic from 2018 to 2020. Patients' vital and clinical information based on inclusion and exclusion criteria were collected and analyzed using SPSS software. Result: A total of 100 patients with sickle cell traits were included in the study. The treatment exhibited significant improvement was seen in (P<0.05) in hemoglobin and red blood corpuscles. There wasn’t any untoward response either from the patient or from laboratory parameters reported indicating no adverse effects were seen. There was an absolute improvement in overall health as a reduction of no of time hospitalization (0) and blood transfusion (0) in sickle cell trait patients. There was a significant improvement in minor and major clinical parameters of sickle cell trait patients. Conclusion: The effect of T-AYU-HM Premium treatment in sickle cell trait patients suggests it is safe and effective. There was no adverse effect observed in the observational study. During entire study period, no single blood transfusion or hospitalization required. The significant improvement in the rate and frequency of painful crises indicates an improvement in pain-related quality of life in patients. This treatment of T-AYU-HM Premium was safe, cost-effective, and exhibit therapeutic potential in the management of sickle cell trait patients

Follow-up of children with sickle cell anemia screened with transcranial Doppler and enrolled in a primary prevention program of ischemic stroke

ABSTRACT Background: Stroke is a serious complication of sickle cell anemia (SCA). The transcranial Doppler (TCD) is the risk-screening tool for ischemic strokes. The objective of the study was to describe the clinical progression of children with SCA who presented with high risk for stroke by TCD or relevant changes by magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and underwent the regular transfusion program (RTP) and/or hydroxyurea (HU) treatment between 2007 and 2018. Method: This was a neonatal retrospective/prospective cohort study with children born between 1999 and 2014 with the homozygotic form (HbSS) or Sβ0-thalassemia who underwent TCD at least once. Results: Of the 718 children screened during this period, 675 had HbSS and 43 Sβ0-thalassemia. In 54 children (7.5%), all with HbSS, a high-risk TCD (n = 45) or, when the TCD was inconclusive, an MRA with cerebral vasculopathy (n = 9) was used for detection. Of these, 51 started the RTP and the families of three refused treatment. Of the 43 children with a highrisk TCD who initiated the RTP, 29 (67.4%) reverted to low risk. In 18 of them (62%), HU was started at the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) before transfusion discontinuation. None of these 29 patients had a stroke. Eight children (18.6%) maintained a high-risk TCD, even using the RTP/HU and two had a stroke. Conclusions: The TCD was confirmed as a viable tool for tracking patients with a risk for stroke. The RTP was effective in preventing the primary event. New strategies are necessary to prevent stroke using HU and new drugs, in addition to bone marrow transplantation.

Real-World Experience of Hemoxin R Plus (Nikosan K Plus): Retrospective Analysis on 150 Patients

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is amongst the most common genetic hematological disorders. Hand-foot syndrome (swelling), pain and anemia are some of the very common complications of the disease. In Sickle cell anemia, the number of healthy RBCs decrease which results in reduction of oxygen in the tissues. Majority of the SCD patients are from low socio-economic strata and can barely afford costly treatment modalities. Retrospective analysis was done on 150 patients who consumed a proprietary Ayurvedic medicine, Hemoxin R Plus (Nikosan K Plus). Objectives: Sickle cell anemia impacts quality of life of patients which include pains including joint pain, abdominal pain, and total body pain. It also leads to breathlessness, weakness or fatigue and hence difficulties in doing daily chores. Our aim was to evaluate safety and efficacy of Hemoxin R Plus, an Ayurvedic medicine in improving quality of life in patients having SCA. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective analysis. Hospital records of the patients were used and reviewed for the analysis. The doctors who treated the patients collected the data from the medical records department. Wilcoxon signed rank test was applied for analysis. Parameters related to the quality of life were studied. The parameters considered were pain (whole body, abdominal, limbs/joints, back), fatigue, breathlessness, difficulty in doing daily activities and absenteeism (school/job). Results: For every parameter considered for analysis, the probability value (p value) was found to be <0.05, confirming the statistical significance in reduction of symptoms. Hemoxin R Plus was found to be safe in the dose administered, as there were no adverse events reported. Conclusion: Capsule Hemoxin R Plus can be used for of the management of sickle cell anemia in pain reduction and in improving the quality of life.

Association between inflammatory molecules, nitric oxide metabolites and leg ulcers in individuals with sickle cell anemia

Abstract Introduction Leg ulcers (LUs) are relatively common in patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA). The role of inflammation and nitric oxide (NO) pathways in the pathophysiology of the LU is not understood. Objective The aim of this study was to verify the association between inflammatory molecules and nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) and the occurrence of the LU in patients with SCA. Method It was a cross-sectional study on adult participants with SCA followed at Fundação Hemominas, a public blood center in Brazil. Eligible participants were recruited and included in one of two groups: Group 1, comprised of cases with SCA (Hb SS) and at least one LU at the time of inclusion in the study and Group 2, comprised of controls with SCA without a history of LU, matched by sex and age to cases. Participants were interviewed to obtain sociodemographic data and blood samples were collected. Clinical and laboratory data were abstracted from medical records. Nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) and inflammatory molecules were quantified using an immunoassay and Multiplex xMAP® technology, respectively. Eighty-seven individuals were included, ranging in age from 17 to 61 years (mean 40 ± 10.7 years); 30 had LU and 57 were controls without LU. Results Participants with LU had significantly higher levels of interleukin 8 (IL-8), IL-10, IL-15, NOx and platelet and white blood cell (WBC) counts, when compared to those without LU. Participants with LU had a significantly higher risk of having a history of osteomyelitis and a higher use of antiseptic soap in bathing, when compared to those without LU. Conclusion In conclusion, our results showed that NOx, inflammatory molecules and hematological features were associated with LU in Brazilian adults with SCA.

Bibliometric analysis of global sickle cell disease research from 1997 to 2017

Abstract Introduction Sickle cell disease is an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by a single point mutation in the β-globin chain of the hemoglobin. It has been recognized by the World Health Organization as a public health priority since 2006. Methods The Scopus database was used in this study with the search descriptors: "sickle cell" and "sickle cell disease". We applied common bibliometric indicators to evaluate the trend in scientific literature in sickle cell disease research. Results We retrieved a total of 19,921 pieces of scientific literature in the repertoire from 1997 to 2017. The Price law was fulfilled in the trend of production of scientific literature on SCD as the growth of scientific literature was more exponential (r = 0.9751; r2 = 0.9509) than linear (r = 0.9721; r2 = 0.9449). We observed a duplication time of 4.52 years. The Bradford core was made up of 69 journals with Blood at the top, publishing the greatest number of articles. The most productive institutions were mostly United States agencies and hospitals. The United States was the most productive country. The National Institute of Health was the most productive institution and also had the highest number of citations. Vichinsky E was the most productive author, while the most cited article was published by Circulation. Conclusion The growth of scientific literature in Sickle cell disease was found to be high. However, the exponential growth trend shows a "yet-to-be-explored" area of research. This study will be useful for physicians, researchers, research funders and policy-cum-decision makers.

(Lack of) knowledge of mothers about sickle cell trait and disease: a qualitative study / El (des) conocimiento de las madres sobre células falciformes y anemia falciforme: un estudio cualitativo / O (des)conhecimento das mães sobre o traço e a doença falciforme: um estudo qualitativo

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the understanding of mothers about sickle cell disease and/or trait of the family from a diagnosed child. Methods: this is a qualitative study, using a semi-structured interview with 23 mothers, at a sickle cell disease outpatient clinic of a public institution, from October to December 2017. Analysis was thematic. Results: all participants had sickle cell trait as well as the parents of their children. Twenty children were diagnosed with sickle cell disease by Heel Prick Test, and three, after hospitalization due to the disease. Most did not know how to report the presence of the trait or disease in relatives other than nuclear. Final considerations: diagnosis cannot be restricted to the result of neonatal screening, requiring that preventive information on sickle cell crises be reinforced. It is recommended to search for other affected relatives to learn about their genetic condition, reflecting on their reproductive decisions.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar el entendimiento de las madres sobre células y/o anemia falciformes de la familia del niño diagnosticado. Métodos: se trata de un estudio cualitativo, mediante entrevista semiestructurada a 23 madres, en el ambulatorio de anemia falciforme de una institución pública, de octubre a diciembre de 2017. El análisis fue temático. Resultados: todos los participantes tenían células falciformes, así como los padres de sus hijos. Veinte niños fueron diagnosticados con anemia de células falciformes mediante la prueba de punción del talón y tres, después de la hospitalización debido a la enfermedad. La mayoría no sabía cómo informar la presencia de células o anemia en miembros de la familia distintos del nuclear. Consideraciones finales: el diagnóstico no puede restringirse al resultado del cribado neonatal, requiriendo que se refuerce la información preventiva sobre las crisis drepanocíticas. Se recomienda buscar a otros familiares afectados para conocer su condición genética, reflexionando sobre sus decisiones reproductivas.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar o entendimento de mães acerca da condição do traço e/ou doença falciforme da família a partir da criança diagnosticada. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, sendo utilizada entrevista semiestruturada, com 23 mães, no ambulatório de doença falciforme de uma instituição pública, no período de outubro a dezembro de 2017. A análise foi temática. Resultados: todos os participantes tinham traço falciforme, bem como os pais dos seus filhos. Vinte crianças foram diagnosticadas com doença falciforme pelo teste do pezinho, e três, após hospitalização decorrente da doença. A maioria não sabia informar a presença do traço ou doença em outros membros da família que não a nuclear. Considerações finais: o diagnóstico não pode ficar restrito ao resultado da triagem neonatal, necessitando que as informações preventivas de crises falcêmicas sejam reforçadas. Recomenda-se a busca de outros membros da família afetados para conhecimento da sua condição genética, refletindo sobre suas decisões reprodutivas.