Trace Elements Deficiency in Patients with Homozygous Sickle Cell Disease
John Kennedy Nnodim *
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Science, Imo State University Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
Meludu Samuel
Department of Human Biochemistry, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, PMB 5001 Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria.
C. E. Dioka
Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Nnewi Campus, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Christian Ejike Onah
Department of Chemical Pathology Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, Nigeria.
Augustine Ihim
Department of Medical Laboratory Science Nnamdi Azikiwe University Nnewi Campus, Nigeria.
Chidiadi Atuegbu
Department of Chemical Pathology Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: The serum trace elements statuses of sickle cell patients attending at General Hospital Owerri, Nigeria were investigated to determine whether or not the serum levels of these elements were normal.
Materials and Methods: One hundred confirmed sickle cell patients (HbSS) age 5–30 years were selected. One hundred normal subjects (HbAA) age 5–30 years were used as control.
Results: The levels of trace elements were significantly decreased in sickle cell anemia (p<0.05), except copper, when compared with the control.
Conclusion: The result suggests, but not conclusively, that supplementation of sickle cell patients with food and drug containing trace elements might be helpful, particularly if diminished mineral levels predispose patients to crises.
Keywords: Trace elements, deficiency, homozygous sickle cell disease