Gum Arabic as Fetal Hemoglobin Agent in Sickle Cell Anemia

Potential Role of Gum Arabic as Fetal Hemoglobin Agent in Sudanese Sickle Cell Anemia Patients

The purpose of this study is to determine whether Gum Arabic is effective as fetal hemoglobin inducing agent for sickle cell anemia patients.

: High level of fetal haemoglobin (Hb F) decreases sickle cell anaemia (SCA) severity and leads to improved survival. Butyrate proved to increase HbF production in vivo and in vitro studies. Nonetheless, its short half-life limited its utilization in clinical practice. Gum Arabic (GA) is edible, dried, gummy exudate from Acacia Senegal tree. GA fermentation by colonic bacteria increases serum butyrate concentrations. The investigators hypothesized regular intake of GA will increase serum butyrate level. The latter will induce fetal hemoglobin production and ameliorate patients' symptoms. 47 patients hemoglobin SS aged 5-42 years, on regular follow up in Military hospital were recruited from April 2014 to January 2015 Patients received dose of G A 30g/day for 12 weeks. Hb F, complete blood count and Erythropoietin level were measured. The main outcome of interest was the level of HbF after 12 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. over 5 year old
2. less t5han 50
3. diagnosed with homozygous sickle cell anemia by Hb electrophoresis

Exclusion Criteria:

1. patients received blood transfusion within the last three months or admitted to the hospital within 2 weeks because of Sickle cell anemia -related events or crisis.