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Perioperative blood transfusion and solid tumour recurrence
1Strong Memorial Hospital, Department of Pathology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY.
Blood Reviews
|December 1, 1987
Summary
Whole blood transfusions, unlike red blood cell concentrates, may increase the risk of solid tumor recurrence. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm this association and understand transfusion risks.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- Conflicting evidence exists on the link between blood transfusions and solid tumor recurrence.
- Retrospective study designs, disease complexity, and varied transfusion practices contribute to inconsistent findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current evidence on blood transfusions and cancer recurrence.
- To explore the immunologic consequences of homologous blood transfusion.
- To guide clinical practice regarding transfusion choices.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on blood transfusions and solid tumor outcomes.
- Analysis of data suggesting differences between whole blood and red blood cell concentrate transfusions.
- Discussion of immunological effects of blood transfusions.
Main Results:
- New data suggest whole blood transfusions are associated with earlier cancer recurrence compared to red blood cell concentrates.
- Homologous blood transfusions have documented immunologic consequences.
- Potential consequences include increased susceptibility to infections.
Conclusions:
- A cause-and-effect relationship between whole blood transfusion and earlier cancer recurrence is plausible.
- Prospective controlled studies are essential to definitively answer these questions.
- Clinicians should consider using red blood cells over whole blood, prioritize autologous transfusions, and weigh transfusion benefits against risks.