Olorunwa M., 12

Olurunwa Messei is a 12 year old child living in Makoko , a very impoverished area in Lagos state Nigeria. During the Meyiwavera medical outreach program, conducted in partnership with Helpster Charity in Makoko, children were being screened and Olorunwa was one of those children. This type of community health initiative is crucial in underserved areas, as it can identify children who might otherwise go undiagnosed and untreated. Olorunwa was presented to our facility with complaint of recurrent bone pain across joints, headaches , fever and dark colored urine, he also had yellowish eyes. Upon presentation at our hospital and after further evaluation, he was diagnosed with Sickle cell Anaemia. Investigations show liver enzymes are elevated, bilirubin is high, Blood levels are low, Elevated white cell count showing infection with elevated platelets. He is critical sick with multiple organ involvement and requires urgent medical attention to treat the anemia, liver problem and the sepsis with raised WBC.

Olorunwa is a 12-year-old boy with newly diagnosed HbSS who presented with recurrent bone pains, headaches, jaundice, and fever. He had a previous blood transfusion at Massey Children's Hospital. Examination revealed hepatomegaly and elevated bilirubin. Lab results showed elevated WBC, a low PCV of 20%, and abnormal liver function tests. He was commenced on Folic Acid, Proguanil, Penicillin V, and Vitamin B Complex, with Hydroxyurea kept in view. Follow-up is ongoing.

Olorunwa is critically sick and having multiple organ involvement and crisis, he is in need of a life-saving medical intervention. He has sickle cell disease with significant anaemia (Hb 7.1), sepsis with elevated WBC, elevated bilirubin, jaundice, and liver enlargement, all showing active sickle-cell–related complications. His malaria test and urine test were normal. With strict medication adherence, good hydration, and ongoing hospital review, his condition can improve and be stabilized, but he will need careful monitoring, especially for his liver and blood levels.