Red Cell Transfusions in Children with Thalassemia; Outcomes of a10mL/kg/hr Infusion Rate

Children with transfusion dependent thalassemia have an impaired ability to synthesize alpha or beta globin which results in anemia. Packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusions are required to increase hemoglobin which supports appropriate growth and development. PRBC transfusions must be completed with 4 hours however infusion rates vary across institutions. Our institution infuses PRBC’s up to 10mL/kg/hr. A descriptive study of 21 children who received a total of 276 transfusions during 2021 demonstrated that this rate is safe and well tolerated. Shorter transfusion times support patients’ and families’ time, resources, and quality of life and aptly utilize institutional resources.