Red cell transfusion for iron-deficiency anaemia: a retrospective audit at a tertiary hospital.

摘要

Background and Objectives The role of red cell transfusion in the management of iron-deficiency anaemia is controversial. This audit was undertaken to monitor the overall transfusion practices of patients admitted to a 600-bed acute tertiary hospital with confirmed severe iron deficiency. Materials and Methods Data from 615 consecutive patients with iron deficiency and no evidence of iron therapy during the period from 1 March 2001 to 30 September 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. Results Of the 615 iron-deficient patients, 39.2% were transfused. Overall transfused patients were significantly older (mean 73 years old vs. 53 years old; P < 0.0001) with more comorbidities than those not transfused. The pretransfusion haemoglobin (Hb) was < 90 g/l in 92.5% compared to 15.4% of patients not transfused. The post-transfusion Hb was >/= 100 g/l in 75.0% of patients and >/= 110 g/l in 44.2%. Although currently rare (2.5% patients) our speculative data suggest that single red cell transfusions may be appropriate in