Sickle cell anaemia in Nigerian children.

Abstract

We have found that sickle cell anaemia in Nigerian children under the age of 10 years is characterised by frequent episodes of fever, limb pains often associated with inflammatory swellings, and various gastro-intestinal complaints, including anorexia and vomiting, abdominal pain and distension, and diarrhoea. Anaemia is constantly found, but varies in severity. Hepatosplenomegaly is present in about 50 per cent. of patients in the first two years of life and increases in frequency thereafter. Inflammatory swellings of the hands and feet are commonly seen in the early years of life. Many patients have cardiomegaly and cardiac murmurs, and the incidence of these increases with age. Evidence of hepatic dysfunction is relatively frequent in the latter half of the first decade. Abnormal radiological appearances in bone are commonly seen. Osteitis is a frequent complication. Some patients show an abnormal habitus. Leg ulcers do not occur and lymphadenopathy is rare.