Transfusion in the patient with sickle cell disease: a critical review of the literature and transfusion guidelines

Abstract

The clinical outcomes of sickle cell disease (SCD) have vastly improved over the years in great part as a result of advanced medical technologies, improved patient education, and multidisciplinary care. A key component in the successful management of patients with SCD is red blood cell transfusion therapy used in the treatment and prevention of sickle cell complications. However, although the successful application of transfusion therapy has significantly improved the morbidity and mortality of patients with SCD, the literature that addresses the appropriate selection and use of blood products continues to evolve with no clear universal standard of care. Our objectives were to provide an in-depth review of the current literature on transfusion therapy in SCD and to provide a set of guidelines for the transfusion management of patients with SCD.