TITLE:
Acute Chest Syndrome and Pulmonary Embolism in Sickle Cell Disease Case Report: About one Case Admitted at the Mixed Medecine and Sickle Cell Anemia Center (M.M.SC.A) Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
AUTHORS:
Alain Munganga Mukuna, Mawisa Nkemfuni Timothée, Longina Kake Roger, Ndalako Yagbanzi Noela, Vangu Payadu Christian, Nimy-Ta-Phemba Tany, Ikoko Mpembe Mimie, Kabengele Obel Benoit
KEYWORDS:
Acute Chest Syndrome, Pulmonary Embolism, Sickle Cell Disease
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.11 No.1,
January
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: Sickle cell disease (SCD), a hereditary genetic disorder marked by abnormal circulating hemoglobin, presents a spectrum of complications necessitating collaboration among hematologists, internists, and emergency and resuscitation physicians. Chief among these complications are vaso-occlusive crises and acute thoracic syndrome, with pulmonary embolism (PE) emerging as a critical and potentially fatal manifestation. In the pediatric SCD population, the incidence of PE is likely underestimated, and documented cases are infrequent. Furthermore, clinical symptoms may overlap with those of acute chest syndrome. This paper details the case of a 22-year-old adult with SCD admitted for chest pain, respiratory distress, and rales. Pulmonary angiography revealed bilateral pulmonary emboli, primarily distal to the right pulmonary artery. Despite attempts to conduct an etiological assessment for venous thrombosis, it proved inconclusive. The patient exhibited swift improvement following the initiation of anticoagulant therapy.