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Sickle cell crisis and the acute abdomen
Journal of the National Medical Association
|August 1, 1986
Summary
Abdominal pain in sickle cell crisis can be caused by vaso-occlusive events or surgical abdomen complications. A patient developed a periappendiceal abscess post-appendectomy during a sickle cell crisis, highlighting diagnostic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Abdominal pain is a frequent and complex symptom during sickle cell crisis.
- Its etiology is often debated, with simple vaso-occlusive crisis and acute surgical abdomen being primary considerations.
Observation:
- A patient with sickle cell crisis presented with severe abdominal pain.
- Imaging revealed a periappendiceal abscess at the appendiceal stump, five months after undergoing an appendectomy.
Findings:
- The case illustrates a rare complication of prior surgery in the context of sickle cell disease.
- The abscess formation suggests a potential link between sickle cell anemia and surgical site infections, though the exact role is unclear.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering surgical complications in patients with sickle cell crisis and abdominal pain.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms by which sickle cell disease may influence the pathogenesis of intra-abdominal abscesses post-surgery.