Did You Know? (Ep. 2)

In Episode 2, we discussed hepatopathy complications associated with the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patient receiving multiple blood transfusions.  Did you know individuals receiving repetitive transfusions may also experience hepatic iron overload, subsequently requiring chelation therapy?

Chelation therapy involves the injection of a chelating agent such as EDTA (ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid), a synthetic amino acid.  These agents bind to heavy metals and minerals in the bloodstream, preparing them for body excretion.


El-Husseini, A., & Sabry, A. (2010). Fatal hyperhemolytic delayed transfusion reaction in sickle cell disease: A case report and literature review. The American Journal of Emergency Medicine, 28.

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