Blood Transfusion: A Lifeline in Hematology and Cancer Care
A blood transfusion is a safe, life-saving procedure that transfers donated blood or blood components into a patient’s bloodstream. In hematology, it is essential for patients unable to produce healthy blood cells due to disease or therapy.
Dr. Nishad Dhakate: A Leading Expert in Hematology and BMT
Dr. Nishad Dhakate is a certified Hematologist and Hemato-Oncologist specializing in autologous and allogeneic blood and bone marrow transplants, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. He manages red, white, and platelet disorders, as well as immunodeficiency disorders, providing individualized care.
Symptoms and Causes Requiring a Blood Transfusion
A hematology doctor recommends a transfusion when blood counts are critically low:
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count causes fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Red blood cell transfusions improve oxygen delivery. Common in Iron Deficiency Anemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, and Thalassemia.
- Bleeding Disorder: Low platelet count (Thrombocytopenia) can cause easy bruising or internal bleeding. Platelet transfusions restore clotting ability.
- Immunodeficiency: Low white blood cells increase infection risk. White blood cell transfusions can temporarily boost immunity.
- Malignant Blood Diseases: Leukemia, Myeloma, and Myelodysplastic Syndromes patients often need transfusions due to disease or chemotherapy. Blood transfusions support intensive treatment regimens and bone marrow transplants.
The Procedure: What to Expect from a Blood Transfusion
- Preparation: Blood is tested to ensure compatibility with the donor.
- Infusion: A thin IV tube delivers the blood into a vein. Red blood cell transfusions take 1–4 hours; platelet transfusions are quicker.
- Monitoring: Vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, heart rate) are checked before, during, and after transfusion.
Risks and Complications
- Allergic Reactions: Mild hives or itching; severe reactions are rare.
- Fever: Body may react to new blood cells.
- Iron Overload: Frequent transfusions (e.g., in Thalassemia) can cause excess iron buildup.
- Infections: Extremely low risk due to rigorous screening.
The Role of Blood Transfusion in Advanced Hematology
Blood transfusions support patients undergoing complex therapies, such as bone marrow transplants for Leukemia. Multiple transfusions are often needed until new stem cells from a donor engraft and produce healthy blood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Que. Does a blood transfusion cure my condition?A. No. Transfusions are supportive therapy addressing symptoms. A hematologist may recommend bone marrow transplant or other treatments for a cure. Que. What is the difference between a whole blood transfusion and a component transfusion?
A. Most transfusions use specific blood components—red blood cells, platelets, or plasma—rather than whole blood. Que. How does a blood transfusion for Thalassemia work?
A. Patients with Thalassemia receive regular transfusions to provide healthy red blood cells, often leading to iron overload, which is managed separately. Que. Is a blood transfusion part of a bone marrow transplant?
A. Yes. Frequent transfusions are required before, during, and after a transplant until the new stem cells produce healthy blood components.
