Factors Associated with Microalbuminuria among Children with Sickle Cell Disease in a Tertiary Centre in South-South Nigeria.

BACKGROUND

Microalbuminuria, an early indicator of kidney damage in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patients, is linked to a heightened risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adulthood. This study investigates the determinants of microalbuminuria in paediatric SCD patients in South-South Nigeria.

METHODOLOGY

This cross-sectional study was conducted over six months at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, involving 60 children with [HbSS genotype, SCD] in a steady state. Data collection included demographics, past medical history, clinical measurements, and laboratory assessments of urine and blood samples. 'Steady state' was defined as SCD with a known 'steady state' haemoglobin level and stable clinical state for ≥ 3 months. Microalbuminuria was defined spot urine albumin-creatinine ratio of 30mg/g to <300 mg/g.

RESULTS

Of the 60 children recruited, 31 children (51.7%) were males. The mean age was 9.6 ± 4.3 years. The prevalence of microalbuminuria was 16.7% (CI: 8.29 - 28.5%) and associated risk factors were hypertension (p = 0.017), use of Hydroxyurea (p = 0.008), and Ciklavit (p = 0.025), but not NSAIDs (p = 0.046). There was a significant negative correlation (ɼ = -0.28; p = 0.032) between haemoglobin level and microalbuminuria.

CONCLUSION

This study provides insights into the factors associated with microalbuminuria in children with SCD in our setting and highlights the need for early screening for markers of CKD among children with SCD. Further research is needed to ascertain the potential benefits of addressing anaemia and reducing haemolysis in mitigating the occurrence of microalbuminuria among children with SCD.