automated red blood cell exchange transfusion

Automated red blood cell exchange transfusion (erythrocytapheresis) is a therapeutic procedure being evaluated in the Phase 3 SCD-CARRE trial for high-risk adult patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and cardiovascular complications. Led by the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, the procedure involves the mechanical removal of a patient's sickled red blood cells and their simultaneous replacement with healthy donor red blood cells using an apheresis device. The goal is to maintain hemoglobin S levels below specific thresholds (typically <20-30%) to reduce the incidence of vaso-occlusive crises, organ damage, and mortality. Unlike simple transfusions, automated exchange allows for the removal of sickled cells without increasing blood viscosity or causing iron overload as rapidly.

Other names

erythrocytapheresisautomated exchange blood transfusionred blood cell exchange