Approaches to transfusion therapy and iron overload in patients with sickle cell disease: results of an international survey

Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2011 Feb;28(1):37-42. doi: 10.3109/08880018.2010.505497. Epub 2010 Jul 30.

Abstract

To gain an insight into current transfusion and chelation practice in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), a survey of international experts has been conducted. The findings demonstrate that general utilization of transfusion therapy is low, the primary barrier to treatment being concerns over resultant iron overload and the subsequent need for iron chelation therapy. Where patients were transfused, many physicians indicated that a high proportion of patients had hemosiderosis. As evidence suggests more patients with SCD could benefit from regular transfusion therapy, it is apparent that greater awareness of the need to monitor and treat iron overload in transfused patients is required.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anemia, Sickle Cell / blood
  • Anemia, Sickle Cell / therapy*
  • Blood Transfusion / methods*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Internationality
  • Iron Chelating Agents / therapeutic use
  • Iron Overload / blood
  • Iron Overload / drug therapy
  • Iron Overload / etiology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Transfusion Reaction*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Iron Chelating Agents