CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF COVID-19 IN INDIVIDUALS WITH SICKLE CELL TRAIT: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the complications associated with sickle cell trait (HbAS) in patients affected by COVID-19, considering the potential impacts of this genetic condition on the clinical outcomes of the infection. To this end, an integrative review was conducted in the PubMed database using the descriptors “Sickle Cell Trait,” “Complications,” and “COVID-19.” Articles published between 2020 and 2025, in English and Portuguese, available in full text, and directly addressing the relationship between HbAS and COVID-19 were included. Studies written in other languages or not specifically addressing the topic were excluded. The results of the analysis showed that individuals carrying the sickle cell trait present a higher predisposition to renal complications and that the presence of this genetic alteration, along with pre-existing comorbidities, should be considered during SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings suggest that HbAS should be regarded as an important marker in clinical risk stratification, reinforcing the need for greater medical attention to this subgroup of patients. It is concluded that the proper recognition of sickle cell trait in viral infection contexts is essential to support more assertive therapeutic approaches and improve prognosis, as well as to contribute to the expansion of scientific knowledge about this genetic condition.