A blood transfusion is a medical procedure that transfers donated blood or components into a person’s circulatory system. It replaces low or non-functioning blood components. In cancer care, transfusions are a supportive therapy, addressing complications from the disease or its treatments. They help patients manage symptoms and continue therapy.
Understanding the Need for Transfusions
Cancer and its treatments can significantly impact the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, often requiring transfusions. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can damage the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced, reducing blood cell counts. Certain cancers, particularly those affecting the blood and bone marrow like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, also interfere with normal blood cell production. Additionally, some cancers can cause internal bleeding.
One common reason for transfusions is anemia, a low red blood cell count. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. Anemia means the body does not get enough oxygen, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a pale complexion. Anemia in cancer patients can also result from inflammation caused by the cancer itself or from kidney dysfunction. Transfusions of red blood cells replenish these cells, alleviating symptoms and improving oxygen delivery.
Another frequent indication for transfusions is thrombocytopenia, a low platelet count. Platelets are small cell fragments essential for blood clotting. Chemotherapy is a primary cause of thrombocytopenia in cancer patients. When platelet counts are very low, there is an increased risk of dangerous bleeding, such as nosebleeds, bruising, or internal bleeding. Platelet transfusions help prevent or control bleeding.
Types of Blood Components Used
Modern medical practice typically transfuses specific blood components rather than whole blood. The most commonly transfused components for cancer patients are Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs) and platelets. PRBCs are red blood cells primarily used to treat anemia and improve oxygen-carrying capacity. A single unit of PRBCs can raise hemoglobin levels, important for patients experiencing symptoms from low red blood cell counts.
Platelets are another vital component, transfused to prevent or treat bleeding in those with low or impaired platelet function. These cells are essential for forming blood clots and stopping hemorrhage. Platelet transfusions are frequently given to cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy. While PRBCs and platelets are the main components, plasma may also be used for clotting factors in specific situations.
The Transfusion Procedure and Experience
The decision to perform a blood transfusion is based on a patient’s symptoms and blood test results. Blood tests determine the patient’s blood type (ABO and Rh factor) to ensure compatibility with the donated blood product. Before the transfusion begins, nursing staff confirm patient identity and blood product match.
The transfusion involves inserting a small needle, usually into a vein, connected to an intravenous (IV) line. The blood component flows from a bag through tubing into the patient’s vein. The duration varies depending on the type and volume of blood product; for instance, one unit of packed red blood cells typically takes about two hours, while platelets can be infused more quickly. Throughout the procedure, healthcare professionals closely monitor the patient’s vital signs to detect any immediate reactions. Monitoring continues after the transfusion.
Addressing Common Transfusion Concerns
Blood transfusions are considered safe procedures, with rigorous screening processes for donated blood. Donated blood is tested for infections, and blood products are often filtered to remove white blood cells. Despite these safeguards, patients may experience mild, common reactions, such as fever, chills, or a rash, which are often manageable with medication or by adjusting the transfusion rate. These reactions occur when the immune system responds to components in the transfused blood.
More serious reactions are rare but can include allergic reactions or acute immune hemolytic reactions if blood types do not match. Healthcare providers are trained to recognize and manage these reactions promptly. The frequency of transfusions for cancer patients varies greatly depending on the type of cancer, the treatment plan, and the patient’s individual response. Some patients may require transfusions frequently, while others may only need them periodically.