clinical features

Last reviewed 01/2018

As the haemoglobin level falls there is an increasing lethargy and general malaise. This may progresses to coma and death unless treated.

• it is usually preceded by or associated with a febrile illness
• skin rashes are absent (1). 

Exacerbation of anaemia is seen shortly after reticulocytopaenia (2).

Reference:

• (1) National Institute of Health. National heart, lung and blood institute, Division of blood diseases and resources. The management of sickle cell disease.  
• (2) Okpala I. The management of crisis in sickle cell disease. Eur J Haematol. 1998;60(1):1-6