Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy during Pregnancy for Critical Anemia Secondary to Sickle Cell Disease with Post-Transfusion Hyperhemolysis: A Case Report

TL;DR

A pregnant woman with sickle cell disease improved with hyperbaric oxygen therapy after experiencing severe anemia and hyperhemolysis.

Contribution

This case report presents the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in managing critical anemia during pregnancy in sickle cell disease.

Findings

The patient received 17 hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions and showed significant clinical improvement.

She delivered a healthy preterm infant via cesarean section after treatment.

The report discusses the risks and benefits of using HBOT in this unique clinical scenario.

Abstract

Background: Sickle cell disease is the most common human monogenetic disease, and its risks are amplified during pregnancy. Methods: This report describes a 35-year-old woman with HgbSS sickle cell disease who developed hyperhemolysis syndrome after undergoing an exchange transfusion during pregnancy. Results: In addition to conventional medical treatment, the patient received prepartum hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), totaling 17 treatments for the indication of severe anemia. She experienced significant clinical improvement while undergoing HBOT and ultimately delivered a healthy preterm infant by cesarean section. Conclusions: The risks, benefits, and challenges of using HBOT in this unique context are discussed.

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