Microalbuminuria in Sickle Cell Patients at the Hematology-Oncology Department of Donka National Hospital

Introduction: Sickle cell disease is the most common autosomal recessive genetic disorder affecting the beta chain of hemoglobin. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria in individuals with sickle cell disease. Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study conducted over a 6-month period, from July 1^st to December 31^st, 2020. We included in this study all patients hospitalized in the hematology-oncology department who had undergone hemoglobin electrophoresis and in whom the diagnosis of Sickle cell disease was confirmed, and the patient had no history of conditions causing proteinuria, so microalbuminuria was investigated. Data analysis was performed using Epi Info 2008 version 7.1.1 software. Results: Of 40 patients admitted to the Hematology-Oncology department of Donka National Hospital, 15 had microalbuminuria, representing a frequency of 37.5%. The 20 - 29 age group was the most represented. Men were more affected than women, at 53% versus 47%. A serum protein concentration of 150 mg/L was the most common, occurring in 56% of homozygous SS sickle cell patients. Moderate anemia was the most frequent finding, with a prevalence of 47.5% in sickle cell patients. Conclusion: Microalbuminuria is a common finding in sickle cell patients. To reduce this frequency, regular monitoring of sickle cell disease is necessary.