Transfusion support in patients with sickle cell disease

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Genetics

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) management relies heavily on blood transfusions for acute and chronic complications.
• Transfusions carry risks including hemosiderosis, alloimmunization, and hemolytic reactions.
• Challenges in low- and middle-income countries include directed donation and limited lab capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current transfusion indications for sickle cell disease.
• To highlight specific populations with unique transfusion needs.
• To discuss alloimmunization risks, prevention strategies, and guideline implementation gaps.

Main Methods:

• Review of randomized controlled trials and observational studies.
• Analysis of transfusion strategies in children and adults with SCD.
• Examination of challenges in resource-limited settings and special populations.

Main Results:

• Established indications for acute and chronic transfusions in SCD.
• Identified risks associated with transfusions, including alloimmunization.
• Highlighted disparities in transfusion support and laboratory capabilities globally.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing transfusion therapy is essential for SCD patient outcomes.
• Addressing alloimmunization and improving transfusion safety are critical.
• Global implementation of transfusion guidelines for SCD requires further attention.