Relationship between intestinal parasitic load, hematological parameters and growth pattern in sickle cell patients in Douala laquintinie hospital

CaHReF 20116, Yaoundé Conges hall, 23 – 26 August 2016 , PL053

Sickle cell anemia has multisystemic manifestations and is associated with severe morbidity and high mortality. It commonly affects growth leading to wasting and stunting. Previous studies showed a high prevalence of parasitic infections in sickle cell patients and alteration of hematological parameters. We seek to assess the correlation between this parasitic infections , hematological parameters and growth pattern in sickle cell disease patients at the Douala laquintinie hospital.

We aim to determine the correlation between intestinal parasitic load, hematological parameters and growth pattern in patients with sickle cell disease in Douala laquintinie hospital.
We carried out a cross-sectional study prospectively over three months, on all consenting consecutive sickle cell disease patients aged one year and above, presenting at the outpatient unit or during their monthly meeting at Douala Laquintinie Hospital. We excluded those transfused any blood product within the last three months. Through history takings and physical examinations we collected data on socio-demographics and anthropometric parameters. Then a full blood count and stool analysis were done for all patients to determine their hematological profile and diagnose intestinal parasites respectively. Data was analyzed using WHO ANTHRO PLUS 2007, SPSS. 

Contrary to other studies we found no statistically significant difference in the correlation between intestinal parasitic load, hematological parameters and growth pattern in sickle cell disease patients attending the Douala laquintinie hospital but there is a considerable alteration in their hematological parameters.
There might not be a relationship between intestinal parasitic load, hematological parameters and growth pattern in sickle cell disease patients.

Sickle cell anemia, intestinal parasites, hematological parameters, growth pattern.