Sickle cell-like crisis and bone marrow necrosis associated with parvovirus B19 infection and heterozygosity for haemoglobins S and E

J Intern Med. 1999 Jan;245(1):103-6. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2796.1999.0445f.x.

Abstract

In the literature, heterozygosity for haemoglobins S and E is known as a clinically benign condition. Nevertheless, we present a case of double heterozygosity manifesting as an infarctive sickle cell-like crisis with acute chest syndrome and reversible bone marrow necrosis. Importantly, these complications were associated with serologically documented parvovirus B19 infection. Reviewing the literature, this case emphasizes a specific role of parvovirus B19 as a precipitating cause. Furthermore, it demonstrates how important the consideration of haemoglobin disorders can be even outside of the historically known areas.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anemia, Sickle Cell / etiology*
  • Anemia, Sickle Cell / genetics
  • Anemia, Sickle Cell / virology
  • Bone Marrow / pathology*
  • Bone Marrow / virology
  • Female
  • Hemoglobin E / genetics*
  • Hemoglobin, Sickle / genetics*
  • Heterozygote*
  • Humans
  • Necrosis
  • Parvoviridae Infections / complications*
  • Parvovirus B19, Human*

Substances

  • Hemoglobin, Sickle
  • Hemoglobin E