Sarcoidosis in a child with sickle cell anemia.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this case report is to (a) present a detailed description of a child with sickle cell anemia who developed sarcoidosis, (b) compare the clinical aspects of sickle cell anemia and sarcoidosis, and (c) review the literature with respect to the coincidence of these two diseases. Detailed clinical case history and laboratory findings are presented. A literature review of other case reports with children and adults who have both sickle cell anemia and sarcoidosis is given.

RESULTS

Based on limited data, there may be an increased incidence of sarcoidosis in adults with sickle cell diseases. No data are available in the pediatric population.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcoidosis is difficult to diagnose in children with sickle cell anemia. The clinical manifestations of sickle cell anemia and sarcoidosis have overlapping features but represent distinct syndromes. Patients with sickle cell anemia who have unusual signs and symptoms need to be further evaluated for the possibility of other coincident diseases, including sarcoidosis.