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Concept
Packed red blood cells
Summary
Packed red blood cells, also known as packed cells, are red blood cells that have been separated for blood transfusion. The packed cells are typically used in anemia that is either causing symptoms or when the hemoglobin is less than usually 70–80 g/L (7–8 g/dL). In adults, one unit brings up hemoglobin levels by about 10 g/L (1 g/dL). Repeated transfusions may be required in people receiving cancer chemotherapy or who have hemoglobin disorders. Cross-matching is typically required before the blood is given. It is given by injection into a vein.
Side effects include allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, red blood cell breakdown, infection, volume overload, and lung injury. With current preparation methods, the risk of viral infections such as hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS are less than one in a million. Packed red blood cells are produced from whole blood or by apheresis. They typically last for three to six weeks.
The widespread use of packed red blood cells began in the 1960s. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. A number of other versions also exist including whole blood, leukocyte reduced red blood cells, and washed red blood cells.
RBCs are used to restore oxygen-carrying capacity in people with anemia due to trauma or other medical problems, and are by far the most common blood component used in transfusion medicine. Historically they were transfused as part of whole blood, but are now typically used separately as RBCs and plasma components.
More than 100 million units of blood are collected each year around the world, and about 50% of these are given to people in high income countries.
In low-income countries, the majority of blood transfusions (up to 65%) are given to children under 5 years of age to treat severe childhood anemia. Another major use of blood in low income countries is to treat pregnancy-related complications. Whereas in high-income countries, most blood transfusions are given to people over 65 years of age (up to 76%).
Official source
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