Incidence of Bleeding in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: A Population Based Study

Conclusion:The findings from our study indicate that SCD patients have a high cumulative incidence of bleeding. While the increased incidence of intracranial, urological, and retinal bleeding has been previously described and are confirmed here, we present the novel finding that SCD patients also have a high incidence of GI bleeding, the majority of which are from an upper GI source. The association of hemorrhagic stroke with a history of ischemic stroke is also confirmed. The association of bleeding with VTE is likely due, at least in part, to anticoagulation. Further studies on the causes and risk factors for GI bleeding in patients with SCD are warranted, and possibilities include gastritis from increased use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (hence the association of ONFH with GI bleeding) and stress ulcerations from frequent hospitalizations. Such data could inform preventive strategies.DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Source: Blood - Category: Hematology Authors: Tags: 114. Hemoglobinopathies, Excluding Thalassemia-Clinical: Organ Damage and Clinical Complications in Sickle Cell Disease Source Type: research