Clinical trial of riboflavin in sickle cell disease
Ajayi, O.A.; George, B.O.; Ipadeola, T.
East African Medical Journal 70(7): 418-421
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-835X PMID: 8293700 Document Number: 414435
The effect of riboflavin supplementation (5mg twice daily for 8 weeks) on reduced blood glutathione (GSH) and iron status was assessed in 18 patients with sickle cell disease (SCD-HbSS). Twelve SCD patients and 13 normal (Hb-AA) subjects served as the control. The total iron binding capacity (TIBC) and serum ferritin (SF) were significantly higher (p < 0.01), but GSH level, haemoglobin and transferrin saturation (TS) were significantly lower (p < 0.001) in SCD patients than in normal subjects. The administration of riboflavin elicited a significant increase (p < 0.01) in serum iron and TS but a non significant increase in SF and circulating Hb. The GSH level varied little in riboflavin supplemented but decreased significantly in unsupplemented SCD. The disparity in GSH concentration might reflect availability of FAD for regeneration of GSH from glutathione. Likewise, the haematological improvement in the supplemented group supports the assertion that riboflavin enhances erythropoiesis. For an effective management of SCD in Africa, a closer attention should be directed to the riboflavin status in haemolytic disorders.