Developing a better method to estimate kidney function in sickle cell patients

Improving Scientific Rigor of Renal Clinical Endpoints for Sickle Cell Anemia

University of Alabama at Birmingham · NCT04380610

This study is testing a new way to measure kidney function in people with sickle cell anemia to see if it gives more accurate results than current methods.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham (other)
Locations4 sites (Birmingham, Alabama and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04380610 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to create a more accurate equation for estimating the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) in both pediatric and adult patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA). A total of 400 participants will undergo a measurement of their mGFR using iohexol at the beginning and after one year, alongside clinical and laboratory assessments. The data collected will be used to develop and validate a novel eGFR equation specifically for SCA patients, which will then be compared to existing eGFR equations. Additionally, a subset of adult participants will explore a new, more efficient method for measuring mGFR.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 5 to 50 with sickle cell anemia, specifically those with HbSS or SB0 thalassemia.

Not a fit: Patients who have had recent complications requiring hospitalization or emergency department visits, or those with acute kidney injury, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved kidney function assessments for sickle cell patients, enhancing their overall care and management.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is focused on a specific patient population, similar studies have shown promise in improving kidney function assessments, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* SCA patients (HbSS and SB0 thalassemia)
* Age: 5.0-50.0 at enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

* Recent SCA complication associated with hospitalization (within 30 days) or ED visit (within 14 days)
* Current AKI defined as \>0.3mg/g increase in SCr from prior visit
* Known history of anaphylaxis with contrast agent or known pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Birmingham, Alabama and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Sickle Cell Disease, Renal Disease, Glomerular Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.