Clinical profile of sickle cell disease patients attending pediatric department of a tertiary care hospital and Sickle-Thal center: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a major public health problem in certain states of India associated with morbidity and mortality in children. The characteristics and clinical features of SCD are different in India as compared to those in developed countries with considerable clinical diversity.AIMS: This study aimed to describe clinical features in patients with SCD at the time of diagnosis and first visit.SETTING AND DESIGN: Department of Pediatrics at tertiary care hospital or Sickle-Thal Society Amravati,India (Both Collectively called as Unit). Design: Cross sectional Study.MATERIALS AND METHODS: All SCD patients 0-18 years, attending unit from October 1, 2019, to March 31, 2021, were included in the study. Data collected were based on history, clinical examination, and review of old records. The sample size was 153.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data was analyzed by using software statistical packages in social sciences (SPSS) version 16. Mean, standard deviation (SD), proportions were calculated and Chi -square test of significance was used.RESULTS: Of 157 SCD patients (145 families), 90 (57.32%) were males and 67 (42.68%) females. The mean age of diagnosis and unit visit was 53.59 and 115.74 months, respectively. At diagnosis, paleness (68%), pain (54%), and fever (45%) were common complaints with other nonspecific complaints. Pallor (97.45%) and palpable spleen (53.90%) were common signs at the first unit visit. The spleen was palpable in 65 (42.48%) even after 5 years.CONCLUSION: SCD patients had paleness, pain, and fever as the most common complaints. Palpable spleen was seen even after 5 years of age. Early suspicion is key for diagnosis.