Variation in Transfusion Requirements Among Children With Thalassemia on Regular Transfusion Programs: Which Formula Closely Predicts the Actual Requirements?. Issue 7 (October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cornell, Nikki; Eisenhut, Michael; Ramprakash, Stalin
• Is Part Of: Journal of pediatric hematology/oncology. Volume 39:Issue 7(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-10
• Subjects: thalassemia -- individualization -- formulas -- blood transfusion; Pediatric hematology -- Periodicals; Tumors in children -- Periodicals; 618.9215
• DOI: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000000746
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1077-4114

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Various different formulae are used to calculate blood transfusion volumes in thalassemia. Using the right formula will avoid iron overload and complications of undertransfusion. Observations: Five years of transfusion data in 11 children with thalassemia showed that no single formula-calculated transfusion volumes accurately. The formula used in the United Kingdom with a hematocrit of the transfused blood of 0.6: (0.4×body weight×desired raise in hemoglobin [g/L]) yielded a volume closest to empirically determined requirements on average. Transfusion factors ranging from 0.3 to 0.48 were calculated as necessary to achieve the required volume for the individual patient. Conclusions: To meet transfusion requirements, individualization of formulas by establishment of the transfusion factor for each patient is helpful.