Transfusion in the Patient With Sickle Cell Disease: A Critical Review of the Literature and Transfusion Guidelines

Clinical Factors Associated With Morbidity and Mortality in Patients Admitted with Sickle Cell Disease

“…The goals of management in patients with SCD include improving oxygen carrying capacity by increasing the haemoglobin level and decreasing the concentration of sickle haemoglobin (18). Blood transfusions (simple or exchange) have been shown to improve outcomes in symptomatic anaemia as well as in acute chest syndrome and stroke events (18). In the present study, the haematological variables on admission were relatively similar between homozygous sickle cell patients and the other genotypes.…”

“…Blood transfusions were done in only 14% of patients in this study and should be considered in appropriate patients as a valuable component of early management to improve morbidity and reduce length of admission (16). The goals of management in patients with SCD include improving oxygen carrying capacity by increasing the haemoglobin level and decreasing the concentration of sickle haemoglobin (18). Blood transfusions (simple or exchange) have been shown to improve outcomes in symptomatic anaemia as well as in acute chest syndrome and stroke events (18).…”

Adult Sickle Cell Disease: A Five-Year Experience of Intensive Care Management in a University Hospital in Oman

“…The effect of RBC transfusion is improving the oxygen-carrying capacity; lowering blood viscosity; diluting the concentration of Hb S, and suppressing production of sickle RBCs due to the improvement in tissue oxygenation. 14,15 The indications for intermittent RBC transfusion include: acute symptomatic anaemia; sequestration crisis; aplastic crisis; acute stroke; ACS; sepsis; acute multiorgan failure, and preparation for general anesthesia or ophthalmic surgeries.…”

Sickle cell disease as a paradigm of immigration hematology: new challenges for hematologists in Europe

“…In most centres they will be uniquely placed to integrate the clinical and laboratory service to cater for hemoglobinopathy patients, including blood transfusion. 49 As illustrated in the paper by Telfer et al, a team approach involving nurse as well as medical specialists is a very successful model. In our experience too, this is the most effective way of providing holistic care for sickle cell disease patients who often face great difficulties accessing essential services both within and outside hospital.…”