Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract

Despite advances in outpatient treatment options, early mortality, chronic pain, and limitations in quality-of-life indices remain substantial for those living with SCD. It is imperative for emergency providers (EPs) to understand their challenging and dual obligation when treating a patient with SCD. First, the EP must aggressively manage the acute pain episode in an objective manner. Secondly, it is equally important to consider concurrent pathology that cannot be missed, such as AChS, pulmonary embolism, sepsis, and splenic sequestration. Finally, the EP should prioritize compassionate care that avoids reinforcing any stigma associated with SCD with subsequent detriment to the patient.

Keywords: Acute chest syndrome; Acute pain episode; Quality of life; Sickle cell disease; Splenic sequestration; Stigma; Vaso-occlusive crisis.