Association of the G-463A myeloperoxidase polymorphism with infection in sickle cell anemia

Abstract

Infections constitute a principal cause of morbidity and mortality in sickle cell anemia (SCA). Here we present evidence to suggest that a polymorphism (G-463A MPO) in the gene encoding the myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme, important for the host defense system, may significantly increase susceptibility to infection in SCA.