Predictive models of six-minute walking distance in adults with sickle cell anemia: Implications for rehabilitation.

Background: Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is characterized by a broad spectrum of abnormalities that affect most body organs and systems. To date, there is few data on the influence of these patients' clinical characteristics on the functional exercise capacity.

Aim: To investigate the effect of the clinical complications on the functional exercise capacity of adult SCA patients.

Method: Cross-sectional study, where 45 SCA patients underwent clinical evaluations, echocardiography, pulmonary function testing, and determination of six-minute walking distance (6MWD).

Results: A significant correlation (P < 0.001) was found between 6MWD and hemoglobin (Hb) level, tricuspid regurgitation velocity, forced vital capacity, acute chest syndrome, and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide. The prediction model for 6MWD explained 67% of the 6MWD variability (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: Hemodynamics, cardiovascular function, pulmonary function, and episodes of acute lung injury seem to impact the 6MWD in adults with SCA.