Epidemiological Profile of People with Sickle Cell Disease and Leg Ulcers Evaluated at a Hemocenter
Keywords:
: Epidemiology Descriptive, Leg Ulcer, Sickle Cell, Hemoglobinopathies, NursingAbstract
Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent hereditary genetic condition in Brazil, caused by mutations that alter the shape of red blood cells. Manifestations include pain crises, anemia, and leg ulcers, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. To improve monitoring and support effective public policies, Brazil implemented the National Policy for Comprehensive Care for People with Sickle Cell Disease and mandated compulsory notification of cases. Objective: To characterize the clinical-epidemiological profile of individuals with sickle cell disease and leg ulcers. Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional study analyzed data using descriptive statistics. Results: The study evaluated six patients with SCD and leg ulcers, revealing a profile of young individuals, predominantly women of mixed race (parda), with low income and education levels, facing significant socioeconomic and geographic barriers to treatment access. Most presented with the SS phenotype, experienced pain crises and organ damage, and had chronic, long-evolving ulcers of spontaneous etiology that were difficult to resolve. The low use of hydroxyurea and partial adherence to chronic transfusion programs highlight the need to re-evaluate treatment strategies and outpatient follow-up. Conclusion: The findings underscore the necessity of a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to managing leg ulcers in individuals with SCD. Such an approach aims to improve quality of life, enhance treatment adherence, and prevent recurrences, thereby enabling systematized care with significant positive outcomes for these patients.
Keywords: Epidemiology Descriptive. Leg Ulcer. Sickle Cell. Hemoglobinopathies. Nursing.
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