FRCPath Haematology Part 2: Transfusion Blood Provision: Special Requirements Transfusion-Dependent Thalassaemia
  • Patients with thalassaemia may require chronic transfusion if:
    • Hb is < 70g/L on two occasions >2 weeks apart, with no other cause (i.e. thalassaemia major)
    • They have:
      • Clinically-significant extramedullary haematopoiesis.
      • Poor growth.
      • Fractures.
      • Facial changes.
  • Blood products should be:
    • ABO compatible
    • Be ideally matched for Rh (D, C, c, E and e) and Kell antigens.
    • If there are any alloantibodies, the blood must be negative for the corresponding antigen.
    • Fresh red cells to enhance red cell survival: within 14 days of donation.
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