Figure. SCD, computer-generated image. Sickle cell anemia, or drepanocytosis, is a recessive genetic blood disorder characterized by red blood cells that assume an abnormal, rigid, sickle shape. Here, healthy blood cells are seen along with diseased cells.
Acute chest syndrome is the most common cause of death among adults with SCD. Severe acute chest syndrome can occur because of conditions that lead to atelectasis, such as post-general anesthesia or splinting owing to pain.
Musculoskeletal manifestations of SCD may include avascular necrosis of the femoral or humeral head, which is the result of vascular occlusion. In patients with SCD, vaso-occlusion leads to infarction of bone and bone marrow; repeated episodes of these crises eventually lead to irreversible damage and osteonecrosis, particularly in weight-bearing areas. The small joints of the hand are rarely affected.
Anemia in SCD is chronic and hemolytic in nature. This results in a hyperproliferative anemia. If a patient with SCD presents with a low reticulocyte count, that should raise concern that the patient will develop a significant or life-threatening worsening anemia.
Aplastic crisis is a serious complication of SCD. It is most commonly caused by infection with parvovirus B19.
Learn more about the clinical manifestations of SCD.
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Cite this: Sophie M. Lanzkron. Fast Five Quiz: Sickle Cell Disease Presentation and Diagnosis - Medscape - Sep 24, 2021.
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