Glomerular filtration rate is altered in children with sickle cell disease: a comparison between Hb SS and Hb SC

BACKGROUND: Renal failure is common among older patients with sickle cell disease; this is preceded by subclinical glomerular hyperfiltration. Data about renal function of adults with sickle cell disease have been reported, but data on children is scarce, especially when comparing heterozygotic and homozygotic patients. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to investigate the glomerular filtration rate of heterozygotic and homozygotic children with sickle cell disease. METHODS: The glomerular filtration rate of 11 children with sickle cell disease [7 homozygotic (SS) and 4 heterozygotic (SC)] with a mean age of 11 years (standard deviation: ± 5 years) was evaluated using standard laboratory techniques. Results are presented as descriptive analysis. RESULTS: Our results suggest that glomerular hyperfiltration is present in children with sickle cell disease; this is more evident in homozygotic than heterozygotic children. CONCLUSION: There is evidence of a need to monitor the renal function of children with sickle cell disease when special attention should be paid to homozygotic patients.