Effect of Hydroxyurea in Children With Sickle Cell Disease in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The objective of this study is to demonstrate the effects of hydroxyurea in children with sickle cell disease at Madina Maternity and Children's Hospital and to evaluate its short term safety. This was a retrospective review over two years period from 2004–2006. The inclusion criteria were: 1. Children with sickle cell disease who had three or more attacks of painful crisis per year 2. Children with sickle cell disease who had two or more episodes of acute chest syndrome per year. The dose range of Hydroxyurea was 15–30 mg/kg/day. The clinical episodes and the laboratory investigations were monitored monthly. The total patients included initially were 14; 4 patients were excluded because of poor compliance to treatment. 10 patients were eligible for the study. 6 were male and 4 were female. 8 patients were Saudi and 2 patients were non Saudis. The age range was 5–15 years. The attacks of painful crisis and acute chest syndrome were significantly reduced after Hydroxyurea treatment, also laboratory investigation showed significant increase in MCV and Hemoglobin F values after Hydroxyurea. We conclude that Hydroxyurea is effective in children with sickle cell disease and had no major short term adverse effect. However long terms follow up is required to evaluate long term adverse effect.