Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is defined as recurrent episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. The airflow can be reduced or completely stopped despite of inspiratory effort, resulting in intermittent episodes of hypoxemia and hypercapnia. OSAS may be a factor in the worsening of nocturnal hypoxemia, of the underlying disease, leading to acute chest syndrome. The aim of this work was to review data on the pathophysiology of OSAS in children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia. We revisited articles published over the last ten years linked to the Medline and Lilacs databases, as well as cross-referencing using these articles. The following keywords were used: sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, sickle cell anemia, sickle cell disease. Studies suggest that OSAS may increase clinical complications, such as painful crises, delayed growth, cognitive and intelligence disorders, nocturnal arterial desaturation and strokes in children with sickle cell anemia. Studies suggest that OSAS may increase the clinical complications of children with sickle cell anemia. Rev. Bras. Hematol. Hemoter.
Sleep apnea; syndrome; anemia; sickle cell; hemolytic anemia