Biochemical Assessment of Renal Function in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease at a Tertiary Centre in Anambra State

Renal complications are among the most clinically significant sequelae of sickle cell disease, and their early biochemical detection is essential for preventing progressive kidney damage in affected patients. This study assesses renal function parameters in sickle cell disease patients attending the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi, Anambra State. Eighty confirmed sickle cell disease patients (HbSS genotype) and forty apparently healthy HbAA controls, age- and sex-matched, were enrolled. Fasting blood and morning urine samples were collected. Serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, and chloride) were determined using an automated biochemistry analyser. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation. Urine protein-to-creatinine ratio was determined from spot urine samples. Results show significantly elevated serum creatinine, urea, and uric acid in sickle cell patients compared to controls. eGFR was reduced in forty-two percent of sickle cell patients, with twenty-three percent meeting the definition of stage two chronic kidney disease. Proteinuria, defined as a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio above 0.2, was present in thirty-one percent of sickle cell patients. Sodium levels were significantly lower in sickle cell patients, consistent with the known renal sodium-wasting tendency in this disease. The findings emphasize the importance of routine renal function monitoring in sickle cell disease management in Anambra State. Keywords: renal function, sickle cell disease, creatinine, eGFR, Anambra State.