The high prevalence of genetic red cell disorders raises critical questions about the safety and efficacy of the blood transfusion process. With conditions like sickle cell anemia and thalassemia affecting a significant portion of the population, examining how these disorders influence different stages of blood transfusions is imperative. From donor screening to compatibility testing and post-transfusion outcomes, the challenges posed by these disorders are multifaceted. This discussion aims to explore the complexities surrounding the impact of genetic red cell disorders on blood transfusions in Nigeria and brainstorm potential strategies to address these challenges and ensure safe and effective transfusion practices for all individuals in need.
Source: Ahmed, S. G. (2022). Transfusion services in tropical Africa: Challenges and prospects from the Nigerian Perspective. Research Gate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363319067_Transfusion_Services_in_Tropical_Africa_Challe nges_and_Prospects_from_the_Nigerian_Perspective
The research entitled Red blood cell transfusion for hematologic disorders by Chang Liu and Brenda Grossman studied the RBC transfusion practices on specific hematologic disorders. The review focuses on autoimmune hemolytic anemia, thalassemia, myelodysplastic syndrome and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The relatively safe hemoglobin thresholds of 7-8 g/dL to serve as a guide for restrictive transfusion of red blood cells. However, with patients suffering from the mentioned disorders this approach is yet to be defined and due to the diverse nature of anemia, there is complexity in the different levels of transfusion dependency. It is concluded that questions still arise regarding these disorders and how we can broaden the blood donor criteria to promote risk free blood transfusions.
Reference:
Liu, C., & Grossman, B. J. (2015). Red blood cell transfusion for hematologic disorders. Hematology, 2015(1), 454–461. https://doi.org/10.1182/asheducation-2015.1.454