Sickle cell trait and multisystem trauma: an unaddressed urgent knowledge gap

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Hematology
• Genetics

Background:

• Sickle cell trait (SCT) historically viewed as benign.
• SCT increases risk for venous thromboembolism, chronic kidney disease, and sickling under stress.
• Multisystem trauma involves conditions (hypoxia, acidosis, hypovolemia) that can trigger SCT complications.

Discussion:

• Scoping review reveals limited research on SCT and multisystem trauma.
• Only three case reports incidentally mention SCT in trauma patients.
• Historical factors, including discrimination and screening delays, hindered research.

Key Insights:

• SCT status is often unknown in trauma patients.
• Lack of data prevents understanding of SCT's impact on trauma outcomes.
• Urgent need for research into SCT pathophysiology in trauma.

Outlook:

• Recommend SCT testing in trauma patients with unexpected complications (VTE, rhabdomyolysis, renal failure).
• Call for trauma surgery research community to support studies on SCT and trauma.
• Advise cautious implementation of testing and research due to historical issues.