what is packed red blood cells for transfusions
Packed red blood cells Packed red blood cells, also known as red cell concentrate and packed cells, are red blood cells that have been separated for blood transfusion.[1] They are typically used in anemia that is either resulting in symptoms or when the hemoglobin is less than 70–80 g/L (7–8 g/dL).[1][2] One unit brings up hemoglobin levels by about 10 g/L (1 g/dL).[3] Repeated transfusions may be required in people receiving cancer chemotherapy or who have hemoglobin disorders.[1] Cross matching is typically required before the blood is given.[1] It is given by injection into a vein.[4]
Packed red blood cells The product is typically abbreviated RBC, pRBC, PRBC, and sometimes StRBC or even LRBC (the latter being to indicate those that have been leukoreduced, which is now true for the vast majority of RBC units). The name "Red Blood Cells" with initial capitals indicates a standardized blood product in the United States.[15] Without capitalization, it is simply generic without specifying whether or not the cells comprise a blood product, patient blood, etc. (with other generic terms for it being "erythrocyte" and "red cell").
Blood type In transfusions of packed red blood cells, individuals with type O Rh D negative blood are often called universal donors. Those with type AB Rh D positive blood are called universal recipients. However, these terms are only generally true with respect to possible reactions of the recipient's anti-A and anti-B antibodies to transfused red blood cells, and also possible sensitization to Rh D antigens. One exception is individuals with hh antigen system (also known as the Bombay phenotype) who can only receive blood safely from other hh donors, because they form antibodies against the H antigen present on all red blood cells.[30][31]
Blood type In transfusions of packed red blood cells, individuals with type O Rh D negative blood are often called universal donors. Those with type AB Rh D positive blood are called universal recipients. However, these terms are only generally true with respect to possible reactions of the recipient's anti-A and anti-B antibodies to transfused red blood cells, and also possible sensitization to Rh D antigens. One exception is individuals with hh antigen system (also known as the Bombay phenotype) who can only receive blood safely from other hh donors, because they form antibodies against the H antigen present on all red blood cells.[29][30]