Sickle Cell Disease: Aplastic Crisis

What is aplastic crisis?

Aplastic crisis means the body stopped making red blood cells.  It is often caused by a common cold virus called Parvovirus B19.  This virus causes the body to stop making red blood cells for about 7 to 10 days. This will cause blood counts to drop quickly.  The virus can cause serious problems for a person with sickle cell disease.

What are the symptoms?

  • There may be one or more of these symptoms:
  • A recent cold. 
  • Feeling more tired than normal.
  • Wanting to sleep more.
  • Feeling like they are going to pass out.
  • A headache.
  • Looks pale.  Look at the palms of the hands or lips to check for paleness.

If any of these symptoms present, go to the Emergency Department.  A doctor must be seen and blood must be drawn right away.    

What will happen in the hospital?

  • Blood will be drawn.
  • Your child may need a blood transfusion. 
  • This virus can easily spread to others. The patient cannot leave the room.  This is called isolation.

Hand washing is very important to stop the spread of infection to others.