Red cell transfusions in children with thalassemia: Outcomes of a10 mL/kg/h infusion rate

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder causing anemia due to impaired globin synthesis.
• Children with transfusion-dependent thalassemia require regular packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusions for growth and development.
• Current PRBC transfusion protocols have variable infusion rates, often exceeding 4 hours.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and tolerability of a rapid PRBC infusion rate in pediatric patients with thalassemia.
• To assess the feasibility of infusing PRBCs at up to 10 mL/kg/h.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study was conducted.
• Data from 21 children with transfusion-dependent thalassemia were analyzed.
• A total of 276 PRBC transfusions administered in 2021 were reviewed.

Main Results:

• The rapid infusion rate of up to 10 mL/kg/h was found to be safe and well-tolerated.
• No adverse events were reported related to the faster infusion rate.
• Shorter transfusion times were associated with improved patient and family quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Rapid PRBC transfusion at 10 mL/kg/h is a safe and effective strategy for children with thalassemia.
• Optimizing transfusion times enhances patient well-being and institutional resource utilization.
• This approach supports a better quality of life for patients and their families.