A leading cause of hospitalization and death in adults with sickle cell disease
Occurs most commonly in the 2-4yr old age group and then declines with age
Due to pulmonary ischemia and infarction; complication of pneumonia
Pulmonary infection
C. pneumoniae and mycoplasma are most common organisms
May also be caused by viruses, H. flu, klebsiella, staph
Fat emboli
Lodge in pulmonary vasculature → additional ischemia
Rib infarction
Overly aggressive IV hydration
Vaso-occlusive pain crisis
Asthma
C. pneumoniae and mycoplasma are most common organisms
May also be caused by viruses, H. flu, klebsiella, staph
Lodge in pulmonary vasculature → additional ischemia
Acute chest syndrome
Pneumonia
Acute coronary syndrome 
Asthma
Flail chest
Pulmonary hypertension
Fat embolism syndrome
Vaso-occlusive pain crisis