Renal Tubular Dysfunction in Sickle Cell Disease

Background/Aims: Kidney abnormalities are one of the main chronic complications of sickle cell disease (SCD). The aim of this study is to investigate the occurrence of renal tubular abnormalities among patients with SCD. Methods: This is a prospective study with 26 SCD adult patients in Brazil. Urinary acidification and concentration tests were performed using calcium chloride (CaCl 2 ), after a 12h period of water and food deprivation. Fractional excretion of sodium (FE Na ), transtubular potassium gradient (TTKG) and solute free water reabsorption (TcH 2 O) were calculated. The SCD group was compared to a group of 15 healthy volunteers