Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Two Nigerian Adolescents with Homozygous Sickle Cell Anaemia
Alphonsus N. Onyiriuka *
Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Department of Child Health, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, PMB 1111, Benin City, Nigeria.
Magdalene E. Odunvbun
Haematology and Oncology Unit, Department of Child Health, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, PMB 1111, Benin City, Nigeria.
Izehiuwa G. Enato
Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Department of Child Health, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, PMB 1111, Benin City, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In the tropics where the prevalence of sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is high, reports of concurrence of sickle cell anaemia and diabetes mellitus are rare with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), being rarer. In this case report, we present the cases of two Nigerian adolescents (one male and one female) with homozygous SCA who presented in DKA. Sickle cell anaemia was diagnosed eight and nine months respectively prior to their presentation with DKA. There was no history of previous multiple blood transfusions. Neither of the two cases had positive family history of diabetes mellitus. The diagnosis of DKA in each case was based on the presence of hyperglycaemia, ketonuria and acidosis. The families of these two patients were of low socio-economic status.
Conclusion: Although concurrent homozygous sickle cell anaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis is rare, it does occur in Nigerian children and adolescents.
Keywords: Adolescents, diabetic ketoacidosis, haemoglobinopathy, Nigeria, sickle cell anaemia