Bilateral pulmonary embolism in a 14-year-old with sickle cell disease in the setting of acute chest syndrome

Abstract

Background: Sickle cell disease patients are at a high risk of venous thromboembolism and its complications, such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Several studies have shown that these complications increase morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis of pulmonary embolism in the setting of acute chest syndrome can be challenging due to overlapping signs and symptoms. Case report: We report a 14-year-old boy with sickle cell disease (homozygous SS) who presented with typical clinical and radiological findings of acute chest syndrome. On day 3 of admission he developed massive bilateral pulmonary embolism and had a prolonged stay in acute care unit. Conclusion: Awareness of such complications and the associated risk factors is critical, especially when the natural progression of the condition deviates from its expected course. Further studies are necessary to explore additional risk factors and develop a risk stratification tool that can lead to early intervention and preventive measures for high-risk patients.

Keywords

• Sickle cell acute chest pulmonary embolism