Transfusion
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An increase in endogenous catecholamine levels after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is well described. Animal studies suggest that postinjury anemia is exacerbated by a persistent hyperadrenergic state. This study aims to determine if beta-blocker (BB) exposure affects anemia after TBI. ⋯ This study suggests beta-blockade delays anemia after TBI. Elaboration of this effect may demonstrate an additional benefit of beta-blockade after head injury.
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Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) and hemolytic transfusion reactions account for significant transfusion-related morbidity and mortality in the United States. Our study evaluated types and quantities of transfused components as well as occurrence of TRALI, ABO, and Rh incompatibilities among the US elderly in the institutional outpatient setting during 2007 to 2008. ⋯ This study shows potential usefulness of Medicare databases in assessment of blood utilization, transfusion-related complications, and risk factors among US elderly in the outpatient setting. It suggests limitations (e.g., need for several years of data to better assess rare complications) and importance of databases as hypothesis-generating tool to supplement blood safety research.
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Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is required frequently for most patients after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). RBC transfusion, however, can be associated with adverse events including transfusion reactions, acquiring transmissible disease, and delayed recovery. Factors associated with avoidance of transfusion are not well documented. ⋯ Increased pretransplant Hb, male sex, and early-stage disease are associated with avoidance of RBC transfusion after HSCT. Interventions aimed at improving pretransplant Hb levels require further study.