Delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction in sickle cell disease

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• Delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions (DHTRs) are a significant risk for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD).
• These reactions can be life-threatening and complicate SCD management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical features, pathophysiology, laboratory evaluation, and management of DHTRs in SCD patients.
• To emphasize the importance of considering DHTRs in the differential diagnosis of acute pain.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical features, pathophysiology, laboratory evaluation, and management strategies for DHTRs in SCD.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols.

Main Results:

• DHTRs present with diverse clinical manifestations and complex pathophysiology.
• Early laboratory identification and appropriate management are key to patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

• DHTRs require inclusion in the differential diagnosis for acute pain episodes post-transfusion in SCD.
• Awareness and timely intervention can mitigate the severity of these reactions.