TY  - BOOK
AU  - 
AU  - 
AU  - 
TI  -  Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors for Central Nervous System Manifestation Among Sickle Cell Disease Patients Attending Clinic at Bugando Medical Centre
PY  - 2024///.
CY  - Mwanza, Tanzania |
PB  - Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences [CUHAS-Bugando] |
KW  -  
N2  - Abstract:

Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin, leading to various complications, including central nervous system (CNS) involvement such as strokes and seizures. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of CNS involvement in patients with different forms of SCD and to identify risk factors associated with these neurological complications.

Methodology: A total of 276 patients confirmed to have different forms of SCD were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Patient data, including demographics, clinical history, and previous neurological events (such as stroke and seizures), were collected. Transcranial Doppler ultrasound was performed on a subset of 96 patients to assess their risk of stroke. Data analysis focused on the prevalence of CNS involvement and associated risk factors.

Results: Among the 276 patients, 162 (57.9%) were male, and 113 (40.4%) were female. The majority (56.8%) were below 18 years of age. Most patients had Hemoglobin SS (HBSS) genotype (95%), while a smaller percentage had Hemoglobin SC (HBSC) (2.5%) and Hemoglobin S Beta Thalassemia (1.1%). A total of 238 patients (90.1%) reported no history of stroke, while 38 patients (13.6%) had experienced signs and symptoms indicative of stroke. Additionally, 115 patients (41.1%) reported at least one episode of seizure in their lifetime, and 142 (50.7%) had never experienced seizures. Among the 96 patients who underwent transcranial Doppler ultrasound, 20 patients (20.8%) were identified to have a low risk of stroke, while 9 patients (9.4%) had a significantly high risk of developing stroke.

Conclusion: The study findings indicate a notable prevalence of CNS involvement in patients with SCD, particularly among younger patients and those with the HBSS genotype. The presence of stroke and seizure history, along with findings from transcranial Doppler ultrasound, underscore the need for vigilant monitoring and early intervention to mitigate CNS complications in this population.

Recommendations: To reduce the burden of CNS complications in SCD patients, it is recommended that regular neurological assessments and imaging studies be integrated into routine care. Early interventions should be targeted towards high-risk individuals, coupled with patient education and a multidisciplinary approach to management. Further research is warranted to explore preventive strategies and optimize care for individuals with SCD.

ER  -