Bone marrow necrosis and fat embolism syndrome in sickle cell disease during COVID‐19 infection treated successfully with sequential red cell and plasma exchange

Abstract

Abstract Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare life‐threatening condition that is particularly seen in milder forms of sickle cell disease (SCD). Widespread systemic fat emboli are generated in the context of extensive bone marrow necrosis. Multi‐organ failure with a high morbidity and mortality may quickly develop. Infection with Parvovirus B19 is a common precipitant. Here, the authors report the case of a 35‐year‐old Afro‐Caribbean man with HbSC disease who presented with FES having tested positive for SARS‐COV‐2. He rapidly became critically ill and required admission to the intensive care unit for organ support. He was treated with red cell exchange and plasma exchange and made a good recovery to leave hospital at week 7.

Keywords

• bone marrow necrosis
• COVID19
• fat embolism syndrome
• neurological impairment
• plasma exchange
• sickle cell disease