Acute Chest Syndrome in Sickle Cell Disease: case report and review of literature

Acute chest syndrome (ACS) is the most common cause of death and the second most common cause of hospitalization of adults with sickle cell anemia. We present a case of acute chest syndrome with rapid deterioration to acute respiratory failure and need for mechanical ventilation. New data about the pathogenesis of ACS influence the current treatment of the disease, while priority remains in the clinical practice, to prevent progression of sickle cell crisis to acute chest syndrome.