Trace Elements Deficiency in Patients with Homozygous Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract

Aim: The serum trace elements statuses of sickle cell patients attending at General Hospital Owerri, Nigeria were investigated to determine whether or not the serum levels of these elements were normal. Materials and Methods: One hundred confirmed sickle cell patients (HbSS) age 5-30 years were selected. One hundred normal subjects (HbAA) age 5-30 years were used as control. Results: The levels of trace elements were significantly decreased in sickle cell anemia (p<0.05), except copper, when compared with the control. Conclusion: The result suggests, but not conclusively, that supplementation of sickle cell 3879 patients with food and drug containing trace elements might be helpful, particularly if diminished mineral levels predispose patients to crises.