Blood test may improve kidney damage detection in children with SCD

A blood test measuring levels of the protein cystatin C may provide a more reliable way to monitor for kidney problems in children and young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD), a small study suggests.

Data showed that commonly used formulas based on creatinine-to-protein ratio, a well-established kidney damage marker, tended to overestimate kidney function more than cystatin C-based formulas, potentially masking early signs of kidney damage.

“This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility and potential relevance of cystatin C–based [kidney function] estimation in children with SCD,” researchers wrote.

The study, “Kidney function monitoring in pediatric sickle cell disease: evidence from the NEPHRODREPA study,” was published in Pediatric Nephrology by a team led by researchers in France.