Sickle Cell Trait - An Overlooked Cause of Altitude Associated Splenic Infarct: A Case Series

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is widespread among the tribal population in India. Sickle cell disease is a symptomatic condition, whereas sickle cell trait is relatively asymptomatic. Splenic Infarction and auto-splenectomy are common in sickle cell disease, but very rare in sickle cell trait; only a few cases have been reported in the literature. Here we present two cases of splenic infarction with similar complaints of abdominal pain and a similar history of exposure to hypoxia and extreme cold conditions while traveling to a high-altitude area [Kedarnath, about 3,583 m (11,755 ft) above sea level]. When both of these patients were evaluated, they were found to have Sickle Cell trait and were negative for other etiologies of hypercoagulable state. This case series contributes valuable insights to the growing literature on splenic infarction associated with sickle cell trait, highlighting its clinical relevance and the need for heightened awareness among the general population and healthcare professionals.