Abstract

Background: Sickle Cell Disease has a high mortality rate. The aim of the study is to assess autopsy findings & pattern of mortality in undiagnosed sickle cell disease patients. Methods: This study is retrospective study. Clinical data like age, gender, symptoms and major autopsy findings including cause of death & histopathology are documented. Results: Out of 1200 autopsies observed sickled erythrocytes were detected in 100 cases. The mean age of death was 21-30 years and peak mortality was in the 2nd and 3rd decades of life. The common causes of death in this study include vaso-occlusive crisis (51%), infection (36%). The terminal infection was heralded by upper respiratory tract (13%) and by gastroenteritis (12%). Other causes of death included intracranial haemorrhage (2%) and cirrhosis (3%) Conclusion: Early diagnosis, prompt treatment & extended screening programme are necessary in prevalent tribal belt of western India to reduce morbidity & mortality. We should also introduce awareness programmes in India.

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