VOE - Analgesia

Last Updated on December 30, 2024 by Analgesia team

VOE Medical Abbreviation

In medicine, VOE stands for vaso-occlusive episode, which is a painful event that occurs in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD).

Acute painful sickle cell episodes occur unpredictably, often without clear precipitating factors. Their frequency may vary from less than one episode per year to at least one severe pain once a week. Pain may fluctuate in both intensity and duration and may be excruciating. Most of these painful episodes can be managed successfully at home.

The primary goal in the management of an acute painful sickle cell crisis is to achieve effective pain control both promptly and safely.

Symptoms

VOEs are characterized by sudden, severe, and unpredictable pain. They can also cause tingling or numbness as affected tissue loses oxygen.
Causes

The most likely trigger for VOEs is hypoxemia, which can be caused by acute chest syndrome or respiratory complications. Other factors that can increase the likelihood of VOEs include cold temperatures, dehydration, infection, and stress.
Treatment

VOEs are treated with analgesics and intravenous hydration to correct dehydration and replace fluid loss.
Complications

VOEs can lead to further health complications, such as arthritis, kidney failure, and strokes.
Diagnosis

VOEs are a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning that other conditions associated with SCD must be ruled out before diagnosing a VOE.

VOEs were previously known as vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs)

VOE Medical Abbreviation

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