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Sickle-Cell Trait as a Risk Factor for an Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism: A Case Report.
James D Cross1, Brendan P Mackey1, Umme Yasmin2
1Family Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, USA.
Cureus
|January 29, 2024
Summary
Patients with sickle-cell trait (SCT) face a higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). This case highlights the need for improved risk assessment in SCT patients who may develop pulmonary embolism (PE) unexpectedly.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Vascular Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Sickle-cell trait (SCT) is a common inherited blood disorder.
- Conventional risk assessment tools may underestimate VTE risk in SCT patients.
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious complication of VTE.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient with SCT who experienced a PE.
- The patient had low scores on standard VTE risk assessment tools.
- This presentation suggests limitations in current risk stratification for SCT.
Findings:
- Sickle-cell trait is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism.
- Pulmonary embolism can occur in SCT patients even with low conventional risk scores.
- Risk assessment and management strategies require re-evaluation for this population.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider SCT as a risk factor for VTE.
- Further research is needed to refine VTE risk assessment in SCT patients.
- Early recognition and tailored management can improve outcomes for SCT patients at risk for PE.
