Abstract

GUTIERREZ-DIAZ, Adys Idalia et al. Sickle cell disease and bronchial asthma. Rev Cubana Hematol Inmunol Hemoter [online]. 2013, vol.29, n.3, pp. 233-245. ISSN 0864-0289.

The diagnosis of asthma in children and adults with sickle cell disease has been associated with increased painful crises and acute chest syndrome, as well as an increased risk of death and a lower life expectancy. The mechanism by which asthma affects patients with sickle cell disease is not well defined and its prevalence in this condition is highly variable. Both are inflammatory diseases and their mediators and alterations in the nitric oxide pathway contribute to its pathophysiology. Hypovitaminosis D occurs in sickle cell disease and is related to the severity of asthma with a diminished response to steroids and may contribute to the high morbidity in these patients. The airway hyperresponsiveness and the abnormalities of lung function tests are common in sickle cell disease. The pulmonary obstructive pattern is associated to an increased risk of death and hospitalizations for acute chest syndrome and painful vaso-occlusive crises. On the other hand, acetaminophen is associated to an increased risk of asthma and is frequently used in painful episodes in sickle cell disease; therefore, it should be investigated whether there is any relationship between its use in sickle cell disease and asthma prevalence. An adequate diagnosis and treatment of asthma can reduce its impact on sickle cell disease.

Keywords : sickle cell disease; asthma; leukotrienes; nitric oxide; acute chest syndrome; vaso-occlusive painful crises.

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