Work

Sickle cell disease presenting with intrahepatic extramedullary hematopoiesis: MRI characterization and diagnostic clues

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) refers to the formation of hematopoietic tissue outside the bone marrow and usually occurs in response to chronic anemia or marrow dysfunction. While EMH is well-documented in conditions such as thalassemia and myeloproliferative disorders, intrahepatic extramedullary hematopoiesis is very rarely documented in sickle cell disease. We present the MRI imaging features of a rare case of intrahepatic extramedullary hematopoiesis in a patient with sickle cell disease. Given the potential for misdiagnosis as primary hepatic malignancy or as infectious lesions, this case report underscores the importance of recognizing the imaging features of intrahepatic extramedullary hematopoiesis in the context of sickle cell disease and chronic transfusion-related iron overload.

Source: Radiology Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2025.09.070

Authors: Ayham Khan Ansari, Abrar Alameri, Safieeldin Ghazala, Ahmad Alduaij

Institutions: Gulf Medical University, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

Language: English

Topic: Hemoglobinopathies and Related Disorders

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $600