Cognitive Functions and Psychological Problems in Children with Sickle Cell Anemia.

OBJECTIVE

To study the cognitive functions and psychological problems in children with Sickle cell anemia (SCA).

METHODS

Children with SCA were compared with an age, sex- and community- matched control group of children with no SCA. Malins Intelligence Scale for Indian children, modified PGI memory scale, and Childhood Psychopathology Measurement Schedule were used to assess cognitive functions and psychological problems.

RESULTS

Verbal quotient, performance quotient and intelligence quotient in SCA group were 77, 81, 78, respectively versus 92, 95, 93, respectively in non-SCA group (P <0.001). Borderline intellectual functioning and mild mental retardation were more common in SCA (70< and 16<, respectively). Children with SCA had impaired attention, concentration and working memory and more behavior problems compared to children without SCA.

CONCLUSION

Cognitive functions are impaired in children with SCA and they have more psychological problems. Facilities for early identification and remediation of psychological and intellectual problems should be incorporated with health care services for children with sickle cell anemia.