Principles of blood transfusion in sickle cell anemia

Authors

• Hussain H. Al-Saeed, PO Box 18100, Al-Jesh 31911, Qatif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Tel. +966 (3) 8361000 Ext. 1013. Fax. +966 (3) 8360040. E-mail: alsaeedhha{at}hotmail.com
• Ahmed H. Al-Salem, Department of Surgery, Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is one of the commonly inherited hemoglobinopathies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is characterized by periods of remissions and exacerbations called crises as well as certain pathological phenomenon such as acute chest syndrome, priapism, hepatopathy, and cerebrovascular stroke. Blood transfusion (BT) as therapy and prophylaxis in SCA, although was advocated as early as the 19409s, there are still debates regarding its benefits and risks. This is a review of the value of BT in patients with SCA with emphasis on the risks and benefits as well as guidelines towards safe BT.

Article Type

Review

First Page

1443

Last Page

1448

Recommended Citation

Al-Saeed, Hussain H. and Al-Salem, Ahmed H. (2002) "Principles of blood transfusion in sickle cell anemia," Saudi Medical Journal: Vol. 23: Iss. 12, Article 1.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15537/1658-3175.1897