Evaluation of saliva as a biochemical indicator for electrolyte estimation in sickle cell anaemic patients

Background: Sickle cell anaemia, a type of haemoglobinopathy is associated with biochemical abnormalities such as imbalance of electrolytes. Aim: To determine and evaluate saliva as a biochemical indicator for electrolyte estimation in sickle cell anaemic patients. Materials and methods: 30 children in the age group of 4-12 years were split into two equal groups: sickle cell anaemia group and control group. 2 ml of blood and unstimulated salivary sampleswere collected aseptically and assayed to determine the values of Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Calcium (Ca++) and Chloride (Cl--) using ABL 800 Flex Analyzer and XundaXd 600 electrolyteanalyzer. Results: A significantly higher level of sodium & chloride was found in serum as compared to the saliva of sickle cell patients, while the mean level of potassium & calcium was found to be significantly lower in serum. The levels of serum sodium and potassium amongst sickle cell patients were significantly higher as compared to healthy children, while serum calcium level was found to be significantly lower among sickle cell patients. Conclusion: Biochemical abnormality plays a significant role in sicklecell patient’s physiopathology and can be used to managementof the disease. Electrolyte estimation using saliva has been proven to be a potential noninvasive biomarker for electrolyte estimation in sickle cell anaemic patients.