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The Prevalence and Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal Disorders, in Patients with Sickle Cell Anaemia, at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda
Akaro, I.L.; Madewo, G.; Orwotho, N.; Nankunda, J.; Byanyuma, R. & Samoyo, P.T.
Abstract
Background: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a condition characterized by a
predominance of haemoglobin S (hbss) in the red blood cells. Musculoskeletal
involvement is one of the commonest clinical manifestations of SCA. There is limited
information on the prevalence, patterns and factors associated with
Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders among SCA patients in African countries.
Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional study conducted in SCA clinic at
Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda. It involved 365 SCA patients who
attended the clinic between 1st August 2014 and 31st October 2014. These patients
were interviewed and assessed to determine the presence of MSK, patterns and
factors associated with it. The transient MSK disorders like dactylitis were excluded.
Results: The prevalence of MSK disorders among SCA patients was found to be
11.5%.These disorders include avascular necrosis, spine osteonecrosis,
osteomyelitis, leg ulcers, pathological fractures and flexion contractures. The age
(11-20 years), highly demanding physical activity status and the annual frequency
of painful crises were associated with MSK disorders.
Conclusion: Musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent in SCA patients at
Mulago National referral hospital. The femoral Avascular necrosis, spine
osteonecrosis, leg ulcers and osteomyelitis were the most common MSK disorders.
Keywords
Sickle cell anaemia; Musculoskeletal disorders; Avascular necrosis
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