Science TechnologySunday, 4 October 2026·The Hindu - Science
CSIR-CCMB creates India-specific sickle cell severity score using data from 171 children
CSIR-CCMB developed ISS1 and ISS2, India-specific tools to predict sickle cell anaemia severity using clinical data from 171 children in Nagpur.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In 2026, scientists at CSIR-CCMB developed India-specific severity scores, ISS1 and ISS2, for sickle cell anaemia using clinical records of 171 children treated at Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur.
Key specifics
- The study found that the international Paediatric Severity Score matched expert clinical assessment in only about 67% of cases.
- ISS1 improved concordance to nearly 83%, while ISS2 achieved about 85% overall concordance.
- The revised model added four clinical features, including recurrent blood transfusions, severe anaemia requiring hospitalisation and acute febrile illnesses.
- All 171 patients in the study were children aged up to 18 years, and two paediatricians independently classified them as mild, moderate or severe.
- The tool may help doctors decide hydroxyurea use and dosage under the CSIR-Sickle Cell Anaemia Mission.
Exam lens
TNPSC may ask disease, institute and data-based questions; remember CSIR-CCMB, Nagpur, 171 children, 67% versus 83% and 85% concordance, and hydroxyurea under the CSIR-Sickle Cell Anaemia Mission.