Sickle cell disease and plumbism in children.
Childhood lead poisoning is common, affects multiple organs and is preventable. Co-existence of plumbism and sickle cell disease (SCD) is uncommon, with major overlap in signs and symptoms. We describe a patient with SCD and plumbism. Dysfunctional eating patterns may cause ingestion and increased absorption of lead in these patients. Routine screening for pica and other dysfunctional eating habits with appropriate behavioral interventions is emphasized. Annual screening for lead in patients with SCD of all ages (1-21years) and supplementation of micronutrients like zinc and iron in deficient cases may help prevent plumbism in these patients.
Issaivanan
Magimairajan
M
Division of Hematology-Oncology, and Stem cell transplantation, Schneider Children's Hospital, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New Hyde Park, New York 11040, USA. ivanan@nshs.edu
Ahmed
Rafat
R
Shekher
Monica
M
Esernio-Jenssen
Debra
D
Manwani
Deepa
D
D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020264:Lead Poisoning, Nervous System, Childhood / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011859:Radiography