Sickle Cell Crisis-Induced Painless Bilateral Orbital Bone Infarction: A Case Report

Case Rep Ophthalmol. 2026 Jan 19;17(1):156-161. doi: 10.1159/000550138. eCollection 2026 Jan-Dec.

Abstract

Introduction: Sickle cell disease is associated with painful vaso-occlusive crises, bone infarction, avascular necrosis, and osteomyelitis. Sickle cell orbitopathy is a rare manifestation with signs similar to periorbital cellulitis and has subtle radiologic features.

Case presentation: We report a case of a five-year-old girl with sickle cell who presented with bilateral orbital infarctions and subperiosteal hematomas, notably without periorbital pain, and was treated with antibiotics and steroids.

Conclusion: Physicians should be aware of this rare manifestation, especially in the pediatric population, as it can affect subsequent management.

Keywords: Case report; Infarctions; Orbital bone infarction; Sickle cell crisis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports