ASSESSMENT OF SERUM ELECTROLYTE LEVELS AMONG SICKLE CELL ANEMIA PATIENTS

Abstract

Introduction:

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is an inherited hemoglobin disorder characterized by chronic hemolysis, vaso-occlusion, and multi-organ complications. Electrolyte imbalance is a common yet under-recognized problem in SCA due to hemolysis, dehydration, renal tubular dysfunction, and repeated vaso-occlusive crises. Monitoring electrolyte levels is essential for preventing life-threatening complications such as arrhythmias, metabolic acidosis, and acute kidney injury.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 confirmed SCA patients aged 18–50 years at a tertiary care hospital in Lahore. Simple random sampling was used. Blood samples were analyzed using an automated electrolyte analyzer based on the Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE) method. Data were analyzed in SPSS using descriptive statistics and t-tests.

Results:

Serum electrolyte abnormalities were highly prevalent among SCA patients. Hyponatremia and hyperkalemia were the most common findings. Many patients also showed decreased bicarbonate levels consistent with metabolic acidosis, along with disturbances in chloride, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate.

Conclusion:

Electrolyte imbalance is frequent in SCA and arises largely due to ongoing hemolysis, renal medullary damage, and dehydration during crises. Routine monitoring of electrolytes is recommended for early intervention and prevention of complications.