Vall d'Hebron Talks by VHIR 'The anemia-transfusion dilemma: effects of prolonged storage on red blood cell’s osmotic fragility and morphology'

Speaker: Marta Peris Sales, Research assistant. Neurotraumatology and Neurosurgery Research Unit (VHIR)

Abstract: Anemia affects up to 95% of neurocritical ICU patients within the first three days of admission. By reducing the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, anemia can significantly influence morbidity and mortality, especially in patients with critical illness or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Approximately 45% of these patients require at least five units of red blood cell concentrates (RBCs). The key challenge in managing anemia is striking a balance between ensuring adequate oxygen delivery to the brain and mitigating the risks associated with transfusions. Recent studies have raised concerns that alterations in stored RBCs may contribute to adverse outcomes. Our research aims to explore the effects of prolonged RBC storage, with a particular focus on changes in osmotic fragility and morphology. In this seminar, we will present the preliminary results of this study, highlighting the significant alterations observed in erythrocytes during blood bag storage.

Host: María Antonia Poca Pastor, Paediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital and Woman's Hospital. Head of group Neurotraumatology and Neurosurgery Research Unit (UNINN)

Access here: https://gencat.zoom.us/j/94335255161