Malaria chemoprophylaxis in sickle cell disease.
Abstract
Objectives: To assess the effects of routine malaria chemoprophylaxis in people with sickle cell disease. Study selection criteria: Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing chemoprophylaxis with any antimalarial drug given for a minimum of 3 months compared to placebo or no intervention. Main results: One quasi-randomized controlled trial from Uganda gave antimalarial drugs and antibiotic prophylaxis together to 126 children with homozygous sickle cell disease. The authors reported the intervention group had fewer episodes of malaria, dactylitis, and higher mean haemoglobin values. Conclusion: There is very little direct evidence to support or refute giving routine chemoprophylaxis in sickle cell disease in areas where malaria is endemic.
Citation
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2003, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003489. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003489.