Sickle cell crisis

Sickle cell crisis is a term used to describe several conditions that can occur in people who have sickle cell disease. These conditions are painful episodes, acute chest syndrome, splenic sequestration, and aplastic crisis.

Painful episodes

Painful episodes, also known as vaso-occlusive crises, are the most common type of sickle cell crisis. They occur when the abnormal, sickle-shaped red blood cells block blood vessels, preventing oxygen from reaching tissues and organs. This can cause severe pain and damage to the affected areas.

Acute chest syndrome

Acute chest syndrome is a serious condition that can occur in people with sickle cell disease. It is similar to pneumonia and can cause symptoms such as chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing. Acute chest syndrome is often caused by a blockage of the blood vessels in the lungs by sickle cells.

Splenic sequestration

Splenic sequestration is a condition that can occur in people with sickle cell disease. It occurs when a large number of sickle cells get trapped in the spleen, causing it to enlarge and potentially leading to a sudden drop in hemoglobin levels. This can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Aplastic crisis

An aplastic crisis is a condition that can occur in people with sickle cell disease. It is caused by a temporary halt in red blood cell production. This can lead to severe anemia and can be triggered by an infection or illness.

Treatment

Treatment for a sickle cell crisis typically involves managing symptoms and preventing complications. This can include pain management, blood transfusions, and in some cases, a bone marrow transplant.

See also

• Sickle cell disease
• Anemia
• Hemoglobin