Sickle Crisis Precipitated by Pneumonia: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a prevalent genetic disorder primarily affecting individuals of African descent and populations in malaria-endemic regions, with significant global public health implications. Sickle cell crises are their most common acute complication, characterized by episodes of intense pain and systemic manifestations that impair quality of life and impose a high healthcare burden. We present the case of a 19-year-old male diagnosed with SCA since the age of two, who developed a sickle cell crisis precipitated by right basal pneumonia. The patient exhibited sudden-onset, cyclic lumbar pain with progressive dyspnea. Initial management included multimodal pain control, volume optimization, and targeted antimicrobial therapy to achieve clinical stabilization. This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing sickle cell crises, addressing both symptomatic relief and the prevention and treatment of complications. It also highlights the need for public health strategies promoting early diagnosis, access to disease-modifying therapies such as hydroxyurea, and interdisciplinary follow-up to mitigate the socioeconomic and clinical impact of SCA.