HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Hemoglobin Count Is Less. Need Blood Transfusion?

default
Posted on Tue, 29 Oct 2013
Question: Need to check if blood transfusion is required. My mom's haemoglobin count is 6.3
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (6 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Yes, blood transfusion is necessary....

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

At a hemoglobin level of 6.3, it is better to transfuse 1-2 units of blood preferably packed red blood cells to avoid severe anemia induced complications.

After reviewing investigation reports, besides low hemoglobin, I see she has elevated MCV, elevated TSH and elevated creatinine levels. If there was recent history of infection, elevated TSH and creatinine may be related. These tests need to be repeated after 4-6 weeks.

Since she has elevated MCV and low hemoglobin, the cause most likely could be megablastic anemia. You can order peripheral smear test along with vitamin b12 assessment to confirm this. I would also order serum ferritin levels and other iron storage markers to rule out co-existing iron deficiency. These tests can be ordered after a thorough clinical examination done at a hematologist's clinic.

In general, I do not see any alarming signs yet. Get her evaluated after she is transfused with few units of blood.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you need clarifications.

Regards
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Prasad J

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2005

Answered : 3708 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Hemoglobin Count Is Less. Need Blood Transfusion?

Brief Answer:
Yes, blood transfusion is necessary....

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

At a hemoglobin level of 6.3, it is better to transfuse 1-2 units of blood preferably packed red blood cells to avoid severe anemia induced complications.

After reviewing investigation reports, besides low hemoglobin, I see she has elevated MCV, elevated TSH and elevated creatinine levels. If there was recent history of infection, elevated TSH and creatinine may be related. These tests need to be repeated after 4-6 weeks.

Since she has elevated MCV and low hemoglobin, the cause most likely could be megablastic anemia. You can order peripheral smear test along with vitamin b12 assessment to confirm this. I would also order serum ferritin levels and other iron storage markers to rule out co-existing iron deficiency. These tests can be ordered after a thorough clinical examination done at a hematologist's clinic.

In general, I do not see any alarming signs yet. Get her evaluated after she is transfused with few units of blood.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you need clarifications.

Regards