Abstract

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) poses a significant public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where it is prevalent and associated with high mortality rates, especially among children. Avascular necrosis (AVN) is one of the debilitating complications of SCD, yet its epidemiology and clinical correlates remain underexplored, especially in SSA settings. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of AVN among individuals with sickle cell anemia (SCA). Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted, enrolling stable SCA patients from the orthopedic department of the hospital. Demographic data, radiological diagnoses of AVN, frequency of pain crises and blood transfusions over the past year, and hematological parameters were collected and analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and appropriate statistical tests. Results: Among 29 participants, 10.3% had AVN. The median age was 23 years, with a majority being female (69.0%). Individuals with AVN showed no significant differences in demographic or clinical variables compared to those without AVN. However, a trend towards older age and higher rates of blood transfusions and bone pain crises was observed in the AVN group. Hematocrit levels were lower, and platelet counts were higher in individuals with AVN.

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