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After treatment and remission

My transfusions

Leukaemia treatment often involves blood and platelet transfusions. Recording this information makes future care safer.

Last updated: ~1 min read
Three glowing bags — My transfusions
Figure 1.Blood components — My transfusions

01Short answer

Record: your blood group (it can change after a transplant), roughly how many times you received red cells and platelets, serious reactions (fever, rash, breathlessness), special requirements (for example irradiated or leukoreduced components) and antibodies. After many red cell transfusions, iron can build up in the body; your doctor can check this with a ferritin test.

02Simple explanation

Blood group: can change after a transplant.

A rough number is enough.

Record reactions.

Note special requirements.

Ask about iron checks.

03Scientific explanation

Irradiated components: after some treatments (such as transplant or certain medicines) they may be needed for a long time, which every new hospital needs to know.

Antibodies: antibodies formed after transfusions can make it harder to find compatible blood.

Iron overload: ferritin can rise after many transfusions.

04What happens in the body?

Components

Red cells, platelets and plasma are recorded separately.

Iron

After many transfusions, ferritin may be checked.

Glowing red crystals.
Figure 2.Iron — My transfusions

Special requirements

If you need irradiated or specially selected components, write it on your card.

A bag under a protective light.
Figure 3.Special requirement.

Blood group

After an allogeneic transplant, it may change to the donor’s group.

05Your transfusion record

Four steps.

Count — Note the rough number.1CountNote the rough number.
Reactions — Record reactions.2ReactionsRecord reactions.
Requirements — Special requirements.3RequirementsSpecial requirements.
Iron — Ask about iron checks.4IronAsk about iron checks.
SafetyCompatible blood is chosen.
InformationRequirements are known.
Follow-upIron is checked.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
ComponentsRed cells, platelets and plasma are recorded separately.
IronAfter many transfusions, ferritin may be checked.
Special requirementsIf you need irradiated or specially selected components, write it on your card.
Blood groupAfter an allogeneic transplant, it may change to the donor’s group.

07Key terms

Red cells
Red blood cells for transfusion.
Platelets
Cells that help blood clot.
Irradiated
A specially treated blood component.
Ferritin
A measure of iron stores.
Antibody
A protein that can form after transfusion.

08Key points

  • Write down your blood group.
  • Note the rough number.
  • Record reactions.
  • Keep special requirements on a card.
  • Ask about iron checks.

09Frequently asked questions

Do I need the exact number?

No, a rough number is enough; the hospital keeps exact records.

Why did my blood group change?

After a transplant it can become the donor’s group; your doctor will explain.

How long do I need irradiated blood?

Your doctor will tell you based on your treatment.

Does this information replace medical advice?

No. This is general education; only your treating doctor can assess your situation.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Do I need the exact number?

  2. Why did my blood group change?

  3. How long do I need irradiated blood?

  4. Does this information replace medical advice?

My questions

12Sources

  1. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Blood Transfusion and Donation
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants for Cancer
  3. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
  5. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Follow-Up Care After Cancer Treatment
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Cancer Survivorship
  7. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). MRI
  8. Annals of Oncology, 2020. Heuser M et al. Acute myeloid leukaemia in adult patients: ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines
  9. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Fatigue
  10. NHS. Strength exercises
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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