A Challenging Case of Severe Sickle Cell Crisis With Multiorgan Involvement: A Case Report

Abstract

Sickle cell anemia is a chronic and debilitating hemoglobinopathy characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, resulting in the formation of sickle-shaped red blood cells. This case report presents an unusual case of a 32-year-old female patient with sickle cell anemia who had not experienced any previous sickle cell crises since her diagnosis at the age of four years. Despite a stable clinical history, the patient's condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to septic shock, multiorgan failure, and atypical complications such as neurological impairment and acute kidney injury. Intensive management strategies, including blood exchange, mechanical ventilation, and aggressive antibiotic therapy, were implemented but unfortunately failed to reverse the progressive clinical deterioration. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and a multidisciplinary approach in managing atypical sickle cell crises to optimize patient outcomes. Further research is needed to improve our understanding and management of such presentations.