Understanding spleen health in children with sickle cell anemia in sub-Saharan Africa
Sickle Cell Anemia, Splenic Pathology, and Hydroxyurea in Sub-Saharan Africa
This study is looking at how sickle cell anemia affects the spleen in children living in sub-Saharan Africa, especially since they often have an enlarged spleen, and it will check how this changes before and after they take a medicine called hydroxyurea.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10873120 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the health of the spleen in children with sickle cell anemia (SCA) living in sub-Saharan Africa, where they often experience an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) rather than the atrophy seen in U.S. children. The study aims to explore the causes and effects of this condition, particularly before and after treatment with hydroxyurea, a medication used to manage SCA. By using advanced imaging techniques and laboratory tests, researchers will assess both the size and function of the spleen in a large group of children. The findings could provide valuable insights into how splenomegaly affects health outcomes in these patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with sickle cell anemia living in sub-Saharan Africa.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have sickle cell anemia or those living outside of sub-Saharan Africa may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for children with sickle cell anemia, enhancing their overall health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on sickle cell anemia in various populations, this specific investigation into splenomegaly in sub-Saharan African children is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smart, Luke — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Smart, Luke
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.