Haematological disease conditions 

Acute anaemia is a medical emergency in patients with sickle cell disease. It occurs when haemoglobin falls rapidly below the patient's steady-state level or reaches a critically low concentration. Prompt diagnosis, blood transfusion, and treatment of the underlying cause are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality.

A single blood donation can be separated into several blood components. Currently available blood components for transfusion include, Packed red blood cells (PRBCs), Fresh frozen plasma (FFP), Single unit platelets (plasma rich) and Whole blood units.

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Acute chest syndrome is one of the most serious and life-threatening complications of sickle cell disease (SCD). It requires immediate recognition and urgent treatment because delayed management can rapidly lead to respiratory failure and death. Patients with suspected acute chest syndrome should be admitted to a high dependency unit (HDU) or intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring and supportive care.

Pregnancy in women with SCD is considered high risk due to increased maternal and fetal complications, including vaso-occlusive crises, acute chest syndrome, severe anemia, pre-eclampsia, venous thromboembolism (VTE), fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and perinatal mortality. Management requires close multidisciplinary care involving obstetricians, hematologists, anesthetists, and pediatricians.