Assessment of D-dimer level among Yemeni Patients with Sickle Cell Anemia

Background: Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a hereditary hemoglobin disorder characterized by chronic hemolysis, vaso-occlusive crises, and a hypercoagulable state. Elevated D-dimer levels have been associated with increased thrombotic risk in patients with SCA. However, limited data exists on D-dimer levels in Yemeni patients with SCA. Objective: This study aimed to assess the plasma D-dimer levels in Yemeni patients with SCA and compare them with those of healthy controls. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the Yemen Society for Thalassemia and Genetic Blood Disorders in Sana'a, Yemen from August to December 2024. The study included 100 participants: 50 patients with SCA and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. The plasma D-dimer levels were measured using an automated immunoturbidimetric assay. Hematological parameters were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean D-dimer level in SCA patients was significantly higher (2.5±1.8 mg/L) compared to the control group (0.3±0.14 mg/L) (p=0.000). Hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in the SCA group (9.5±1.5 g/dL) compared to controls (14.7±1.3 g/dL) (p=0.000). SCA patients also exhibited significantly lower RBC counts (3.3±0.8 ×10¹²/L) and higher platelet counts (368.3±133.8 ×10⁹/L) than controls (5.8±0.7 ×10¹²/L and 260.8±48.9 ×10⁹/L, respectively) (p=0.000). Conclusion: Yemeni patients with SCA exhibited significantly elevated D-dimer levels, suggesting increased coagulation activation and thrombotic risk. These findings highlight the need for further research on thromboprophylactic strategies in this population.