Key Findings
Retrospective study reviewed 81 pediatric SCD patients referred for polysomnography to explore factors associated with nocturnal hypoxemia (NH), independent of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
- Purpose – To identify clinical and laboratory correlates of NH in pediatric SCD, given the known complications associated with NH in SCD.
- Population – Children with SCD referred for polysomnography.
- Headline result – NH occurred even in children without OSA. Significant associations of NH were found with lower hemoglobin, higher reticulocyte count, lower diastolic blood pressure, and lower oxygen saturation.
- Why it matters – NH may serve as a non-invasive biomarker indicating a subgroup at higher risk, prompting early intervention.
- Evidence gaps – Single-center, retrospective data. Larger multicenter and prospective studies are needed to identify associations, causes, and predictors, and treatment guidelines for NH in this population.
Source: Journal of Sickle Cell Disease – Correlates of nocturnal hypoxemia in children with sickle cell disease
Regulatory & Guideline Watch
Current SCD guidelines (e.g., ASH 2020, NHLBI) emphasize chronic anemia and vaso-occlusive risk management but do not address nocturnal hypoxemia specifically. As evidence emerges, incorporating NH screening into clinical practice could inform preventive care protocols in pediatric SCD.Upcoming FSCDR Events & CME
Virtual Symposium on Nursing in Sickle Cell Disease
Thursday, October 2, 2025 | Virtual Event
This year’s Virtual Symposium on Nursing in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) brings together leading experts, frontline nursing researchers, advanced practice nurses, and clinicians specializing in critical areas of SCD care, including maternal health, stroke prevention, mental health, and complex inpatient management.
Genice T. Nelson, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC
Scientific Chair
A seasoned Nurse Practitioner specializing in sickle cell disease with over 15 years of experience managing adult patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She has championed education on SCD for patients, families, and healthcare providers across the U.S. and internationally.