Sickle cell disease: acute complications and management
Hodges, Ross
Hodges, Ross
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Abstract
Abstract published with permission.
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder resulting in the sickling of red
blood cells (RBC) when exposed to certain conditions. Historically, sickle cell care
has been poor and often delayed, but in recent years, several key publications
have helped provide guidance and uniformity on how to manage acute crises,
ensuring all patients receive a high level of care. The sickling of RBC can lead to
acute complications, some of which are potentially life-threatening. The sickling
can occur anywhere in the body, producing a wide array of symptoms. For this
reason, it is paramount that prehospital clinicians conduct a thorough assessment
and, where appropriate, initiate treatment prior to arrival at the hospital. The
most common symptom that clinicians will need to manage is severe pain. Many
patients will have an individualized treatment plan detailing how they are best
managed following an acute crisis and where possible it should be followed.