Asiya Y., 19

Asiya is is a a 19yo lady who is staying with her parents in an extended family. Parents are aged, her older siblings are having small business which they use to support the family. They live in an apartment having a pit toilet with a well, no access to electricity. Monthly income is 10000. Until two days ago Asiya was apparently well but for the sudden spell of dizziness associated with headache. Her condition worsened with generalized body pains, loss of appetite. On examination, a 19yo ill looking lady, febrile, jaundiced but acyanosed with rapid pulse and poor SpO2 of 85%. Patient was diagnosed with Haemolytic Crisis in SCD. Asiya was admitted and thoroughly evaluated.

Until two days ago Asiya was apparently well but for the sudden spell of dizziness associated with headache. Her condition worsened with generalized body pains, loss of appetite. On examination, a 19yo ill looking lady, febrile, jaundiced but acyanosed with rapid pulse and poor SpO2 of 85%. Patient was diagnosed with Haemolytic Crisis in Sickle Cell Disease. Patient was commenced treatment with injection antimalarials, injection antibiotics, pain killers, IV fluids and other supportive care. Patient became stable and was discharged.

Haemolytic crisis secondary to sickle cell disease, requiring prompt supportive care, treatment of precipitating factors, close monitoring. Prognosis is generally good with early recognition, appropriate supportive treatment, and correction of underlying triggers. Delayed management may result in severe anemia, cardiovascular compromise, or other life-threatening complications.