[Clinical value of C-reactive protein, alpha 1-glycoprotein acid and transferrin assay in homozygous sickle cell disease].

Two acute phase reactants (C-reactive protein: CRP and alpha 1-acid glycoprotein: alpha 1-AGP) and transferrin (Tf) levels change were measured in order to evaluate their clinical or prognostic value during the vaso-occlusive crisis. Measurements were performed in normal controls, painful crisis with or without treatment and during steady state. Immunochemical determinations indicate that markedly acute inflammation occurred in sickle cell painful crisis, as revealed CRP and alpha 1-AGP levels. Compared to controls, during periods of steady state in the absence of any intercurrent condition, a lesser but significative increase of alpha 1-GPA was observed. Transferrin level remained lower and did not sufficient to discriminate between crisis and steady state. Compared to the vasodilatator drug effect, non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug showed more efficiency in the sickle cell disease inflammatory process. Taken together, these findings indicate that serial determinations of CRP, alpha 1-GPA and Tf may be helpful in monitoring the course of sickle cell disease and response to treatment. Then, non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs appear necessary to reduce the length of the sickle cell crisis.