Auditory Impairment in Children and Adults with Sickle Cell Disease and Sickle Cell Trait

Background: Auditory impairment is one of the systemic consequences linked to sickle cell disease (SCD) and sickle cell trait (SCT). Nevertheless, little is known about the degree and nature of hearing loss in adults and children with SCD and SCT.
Aim: To evaluate the impact of hearing loss on children and adults with SCD and SCT, assess its severity, and identify potential risk factors.
Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Ahrar Teaching Hospital on 120 participants who were divided into four groups: 30 children with SCD, 30 adults with SCD, 30 children with SCT, and 30 adults with SCT. Comprehensive audiological assessments were performed to determine the presence and severity of hearing loss. Demographic data, including age and gender distribution, were also analyzed.
Results: The study revealed significant differences in hearing impairment between SCD and SCT groups. Children with SCD exhibited greater vulnerability to auditory dysfunction compared to their adult counterparts. The gender distribution showed a higher prevalence of hearing loss among females in the pediatric SCD group (56.7%), while adult SCD patients had a male predominance (66.7%). SCD was associated with more profound auditory and cognitive deficits than SCT.
Conclusion: SCD poses a significant risk for hearing loss, particularly in children, necessitating early screening and intervention to mitigate developmental and quality-of-life impairments. Further research is needed to identify the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and optimize management strategies.