SERUM TRACE ELEMENTS PICTURE IN SICKLE CELL ANAEMIA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF HBSS AND HBAA INDIVIDUALS AT A TEACHING HOSPITAL IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

Background: Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a chronic hemoglobinopathy associated with oxidative stress and altered trace element metabolism. This study evaluates the levels of key trace elements in SCA patients and their potential clinical implications. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital. A total of 111 participants, including 74 SCA patients (37 in steady state and 37 in crises) and 37 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HbAA), were recruited. Serum copper, zinc, magnesium, selenium, and chromium levels were measured using validated spectrophotometric and colorimetric methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, with statistical significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: SCA patients had significantly higher mean serum copper levels than controls (p < 0.001), while zinc, magnesium, selenium, and chromium levels were significantly lower (p < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between copper and zinc (r = -0.875, p < 0.001) and positive correlations between zinc and magnesium (r = 0.925, p < 0.001), selenium (r = 0.94, p < 0.001), and chromium (r = 0.918, p < 0.001).Conclusion: This study highlights significant trace element imbalances in SCA patients, suggesting potential micronutrient deficiencies. Further research is needed to assess the clinical impact and potential benefits of targeted nutritional interventions in SCA management