Effect of Long-Term Transfusion on Growth in Children with Sickle Cell Anemia: Results of the STOP Trial

Objective: To see if administration of long-term transfusion (transfer of healthy red blood cells) in children with sickle cell anemia can improve growth.

Study design: In the Stroke Prevention Trial for Sickle Cell Anemia Study, patients were randomly put in two groups. The first group received transfusion every 3 to 5 weeks to maintain hemoglobin S (an abnormal form of hemoglobin) levels under 30%. The second group received standard care (transfusion only when clinically needed). Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were measured every 3 months. Growth rates were also compared.

Results: All 53 children in the transfusion group and 41 children in the standard care group had similar health profiles at the start. After 24 months, children in the transfusion group had heights, weights, and BMI values closer to what was expected for their age. The standard care group showed no change. When compared to a large control group from the past, the transfusion group showed faster growth in height and weight.

Conclusions: Over the two-year study period, patients in the transfusion group had improved height, weight, and BMI. Increased levels of healthy hemoglobin cells due to long-term transfusion may decrease energy use and improve growth in children with sickle cell disease.

Reference, Original Abstract:

Wang WC, Morales KH, Scher CD, Styles L, Olivieri N, Adams R, Brambilla D; STOP Investigators. Effect of long-term transfusion on growth in children with sickle cell anemia: results of the STOP trial. J Pediatr. 2005 Aug;147(2):244-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2005.02.030.PMID: 16126058..