Ophthalmological manifestations of hemoglobinopathies S and C at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Yalgado Ouédraogo

Abstract

the S and c haemoglobinopathies result from abnormalities in the beta chain of the hemoglobin. the chief manifestations are chronic hemolytic anemia and vaso-oclusive crises that constitute the sickle syndromes. ocular abnormalities although potentially blinding, are not enough documented. in order to contribute to a better management of the haemoglobinopathies and prevention of blindness, this study aimed to describe
the ophthalmologic manifestations of haemoglobinopathies, S and c at the centre hospitalier universitaire yalgado ouedraogo. from March, 1st, 1998 to June 30th, 1999 all patients with a hemoglobin S or c checked by hemoglobin electrophoresis have been collected for a complete ophthalmologic examination. A total of 115 patients were recorded, including 65 women (56.5 %). the average age was 24.8 years with a range from 0,75 to 56 years. Sc and Ac phenotypes were the most represented, respectively 30.4 % and 29.4 %. ophthalmologic damages were found in all patients. those threatening the visual function were showed by the fundus examination: proliferative retinopathy was observed in 19 patients (16,52 %) including 17 double heterozygotes Sc.