Blood Products Research Articles

Comparable bleeding and inflammation outcomes between heparin-coated and uncoated minimal invasive extracorporeal circuits in isolated coronary artery bypass surgery - A double-blinded randomized control trial.

Minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation has been shown to be non-inferior or even superior to conventional cardiopulmonary bypass circuits in isolated coronary artery bypass grafting, but there is little evidence whether the addition of a heparin-coated circuit can further reduce the inflammatory response and amount of bleeding in these patients. A single-center randomized control trial enrolled 49 adult patients scheduled to undergo isolated coronary artery bypass grafting with minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation (MiECC) between January 2015 and December 2018. Patients were randomized 1:1 to either the heparin-coated circuit group, or the uncoated (control) circuit group. The primary outcome was chest tube output 18h after weaning from MiECC, and secondary outcomes included inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10) and complement (C3a, C4d, C5a, sC5b-9) biomarkers, platelet count and function (D2D, TAT, SDC1, PF4), number of transfused blood products, and 30-day survival. Patients were randomized to undergo myocardial revascularization using heparin-coated circuits (n = 25), and to the uncoated MiECC circuit (n = 24), with comparable baseline demographics. No significant difference was observed in chest tube output and for all secondary outcomes. IL-6 and IL-8 were increased from baseline at 18h after weaning (effect size 0.29 and 0.05, respectively) and sC5b-9 was lower (effect size 0.11) in the heparin-coated than in the uncoated MiECC, although not significantly different. Compared with an uncoated MiECC circuit, heparin-coated MiECC circuit was not associated with a reduction in postoperative bleeding, transfusion, inflammation, complement activation, and platelet biomarkers, following isolated coronary artery bypass grafting.

Body mass index and its impact on outcomes in CABG surgery: the paradox of obesity and underweight risks.

Objective: To explore the impact of BMI on the short-term mortality and morbidity of patients undergoing CABG. Study Design: Retrospective Cross Sectional study. Setting: Department of Cardiac Surgery Rehman Medical Institute, Peshawar, Pakistan. Period: 1st June 2017 to 31st December 2022. Methods: The data was collected from the data base of the cardiac surgery department. Results: Total of 2599 isolated CABG patients were included with mean age of 57.86±9.2 years. The majority was overweight (42%). Approximately 78.1% were male. Hypertension was our dominant co-morbidity (68.7%) followed by dyslipidemia (65.4%) & DM (50.1%). Majority of patients had NYHA-III symptoms (51.2%). A significant proportion of individuals who are classified as underweight are elderly. Generally, there is a significant increasing trend of DM & HTN incidence with increasing BMI. In terms of intra-operative parameters there is increasing trend of intra-operative transfusions and higher rate of IABP insertion in underweight patients. Generally the underweight patients has the higher trend of adverse outcomes (e.g., prolonged mechanical ventilation, blood product requirement, reopening & re-intubation), but not significant. However, they have significantly longer mechanical ventilation time compared to normal. On the other extreme, morbidly obese patients had the highest in-hospital mortality (11.3%) while overweight had the lowest (2.6%) with a P-value of 0.008. Multivariate regression analysis showed that mean age (P 0.034), cross-clamp time (P 0.018) & mechanical ventilation (P <0.001) were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality. Conclusion: Morbidly obese patients undergoing CABG surgery face significantly higher in-hospital mortality rate, conversely overweight patients exhibits the lowest mortality rates confirming a partial obesity paradox. However, underweight patients experience the worst outcomes, including increased requirements for postoperative blood transfusions, a higher incidence of surgical reopening, and significantly extended mechanical ventilation hours, which indicates either extreme of BMI group is associated with worst outcomes.

6693 Hypopituitarism in Pregnancy

Abstract Disclosure: N.A. Mcheik: None. H. Howarth: None. Background: Hypopituitarism in pregnancy requires careful management to ensure both maternal and fetal well-being. Disruptions of the pituitary gland in pregnancy can be due to adenomas, pituitary infarction, autoimmune disease, trauma, etc. Complications of hypopituitarism in pregnancy stem from inadequate production of thyroid stimulating hormone, growth hormone, gonadotropins and cortisol. Hormone replacement therapy will be necessary in such cases. For instance, patients in late pregnancy may require an increased dose of hydrocortisone due to the rise of corticosteroid-binding globulin. Patients may need increased doses of glucocorticoid therapy during labor given the major surgical stress. Antenatal care should include close follow up with endocrinologists and obstetricians and regular assessment of maternal hormone levels and fetal growth. Case: We present a case of a 37-year-old female G3P0020 at 24 weeks who presented with complaint of constant headache for 6 days. Associated with photophobia, intermittent blurry vision, nausea, and vomiting. She was admitted and given 1 g Magnesium bolus as well as Robaxin and Tylenol for headache without relief. Given persistence of symptoms and non-focal neurologic exam, MRI brain was completed that showed an enlarged pituitary gland with blood products. MRI pituitary showed an approximately 1.3 x 1.2 x 1.8 cm hemorrhagic lesion on the right side of pituitary gland with fluid level, most in keeping with hemorrhagic pituitary apoplexy. Thyroid function studies were consistent with central hypothyroidism with a low TSH 0.05, low Ft4 0.5, and normal Ft3 2.4. Luteinizing hormone was 0.1 mIU/mL (<1.5 normal in pregnancy), follicle stimulating hormone was <0.5 mIU/mL (<0.1 normal in pregnancy), estradiol >5000 pg/mL (1278-7192 normal in pregnancy), and prolactin 254 ng/mL (80-400 normal in pregnancy). IGF-1 was normal at 148 ng/ml. Morning cortisol was low at 1.8 ug/dL and ACTH was 9 pg/mL (low normal). Cortrosyn stimulation test at 60 minutes was normal at 17.7 ug/dL, however, given clinical improvement on steroids, the clinical picture is consistent with central hypoadrenalism. For treatment, she was started on IV hydrocortisone 50 mg every 8 hours and oral levothyroxine 100 mcg daily. The patient was discharged home on oral hydrocortisone 20 mg daily in the morning and 10 mg daily in the afternoon with close follow up. Conclusion: Ultimately, the management of hypopituitarism in pregnancy requires a personalized approach to hormone replacement and obstetric care and this is done through multidisciplinary care involving endocrinologists and obstetricians to optimize outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Presentation: 6/1/2024

6693 Hypopituitarism in Pregnancy

Abstract Disclosure: N.A. Mcheik: None. H. Howarth: None. Background: Hypopituitarism in pregnancy requires careful management to ensure both maternal and fetal well-being. Disruptions of the pituitary gland in pregnancy can be due to adenomas, pituitary infarction, autoimmune disease, trauma, etc. Complications of hypopituitarism in pregnancy stem from inadequate production of thyroid stimulating hormone, growth hormone, gonadotropins and cortisol. Hormone replacement therapy will be necessary in such cases. For instance, patients in late pregnancy may require an increased dose of hydrocortisone due to the rise of corticosteroid-binding globulin. Patients may need increased doses of glucocorticoid therapy during labor given the major surgical stress. Antenatal care should include close follow up with endocrinologists and obstetricians and regular assessment of maternal hormone levels and fetal growth. Case: We present a case of a 37-year-old female G3P0020 at 24 weeks who presented with complaint of constant headache for 6 days. Associated with photophobia, intermittent blurry vision, nausea, and vomiting. She was admitted and given 1 g Magnesium bolus as well as Robaxin and Tylenol for headache without relief. Given persistence of symptoms and non-focal neurologic exam, MRI brain was completed that showed an enlarged pituitary gland with blood products. MRI pituitary showed an approximately 1.3 x 1.2 x 1.8 cm hemorrhagic lesion on the right side of pituitary gland with fluid level, most in keeping with hemorrhagic pituitary apoplexy. Thyroid function studies were consistent with central hypothyroidism with a low TSH 0.05, low Ft4 0.5, and normal Ft3 2.4. Luteinizing hormone was 0.1 mIU/mL (<1.5 normal in pregnancy), follicle stimulating hormone was <0.5 mIU/mL (<0.1 normal in pregnancy), estradiol >5000 pg/mL (1278-7192 normal in pregnancy), and prolactin 254 ng/mL (80-400 normal in pregnancy). IGF-1 was normal at 148 ng/ml. Morning cortisol was low at 1.8 ug/dL and ACTH was 9 pg/mL (low normal). Cortrosyn stimulation test at 60 minutes was normal at 17.7 ug/dL, however, given clinical improvement on steroids, the clinical picture is consistent with central hypoadrenalism. For treatment, she was started on IV hydrocortisone 50 mg every 8 hours and oral levothyroxine 100 mcg daily. The patient was discharged home on oral hydrocortisone 20 mg daily in the morning and 10 mg daily in the afternoon with close follow up. Conclusion: Ultimately, the management of hypopituitarism in pregnancy requires a personalized approach to hormone replacement and obstetric care and this is done through multidisciplinary care involving endocrinologists and obstetricians to optimize outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Presentation: 6/1/2024

12386 Unilateral Spontaneous Adrenal Hemorrhage In Pregnancy

Abstract Disclosure: A. Gondhi: None. M. Campana: None. M. Riofrio: None. J. Fazendin: None. D. Vodopivec: None. Unilateral Spontaneous Adrenal Hemorrhage In Pregnancy Introduction: Spontaneous adrenal hemorrhage (SAH) in pregnancy is a rare and under recognized entity with an incidence of 0.14% - 1.1%, mostly unilateral. We present a case of unilateral SAH managed with adrenalectomy during pregnancy. Case presentation: A 24-year-old 14-weeks pregnant woman was referred for right flank pain and nausea due to right adrenal lesion. Medical history significant for 4 first trimester miscarriages and family history of Breast cancer and Uterine cancer in mother, Pancreatic cancer in multiple family members on paternal side. She was hemodynamically stable. Abdominal-US showed right adrenal lesion. Non-contrast MRI abdomen showed a large collection in the right adrenal gland measuring 9.6cm x 9cm. Ability to assess for underlying lesion challenging given the amount of blood products and lack of IV contrast. Laboratory analysis showed an appropriately suppressed cortisol with 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test (cortisol 1.3 mcg/dl, N<1.8 mcg/d Dexamethasone level 332 ng/dl, N<180-550 ng/dl), normal DHEA-S (135 mcg/dl, N=18-391mcg/dl), non-suppressed ACTH (18 pg/ml, N 7.2-63 pg/ml), normal aldosterone (8.1 ng/dl, N=3-39.2 ng/dl) with a non-suppressed renin (17.8 pg/ml, N=4.2-52.2 pg/ml), normal fractionated plasma metanephrines (Free metanephrines <0.2 nMol/L, N<0.0.5nMol/L Free normetaphrines <0.2 nMol/L, N<0.9nMol/L), negative Antiphopholipid antibody testing (Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM <2 U/ml, N<20U/ml, Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgG 2.2 U/ml, N<20U/ml). The patient underwent a laparoscopic converted to open right adrenalectomy. Pathology showed a 9.6cm adrenal gland with organizing hematoma, vascular congestion, and hemorrhage. It also showed periadrenal adipose tissue with atypia, MDM2 gene amplification by FISH negative – ruling out liposarcoma. Post-operatively, her symptoms resolved without complications to the pregnancy. Differentials for adrenal hemorrhage in this pregnant patient include: 1) underlying adrenal tumor (most commonly pheochromocytoma), 2) coagulopathy (e.g. antiphospholipid syndrome), and 3) pregnancy-related adrenal hemorrhage (rare, mostly unilateral due to increased vascular flow to the adrenal gland and the hypercoagulability). After evaluating the adrenal functionality, APLAS and assessing the malignant potential with imaging studies; conservative management is appropriate in stable patients. Our patient underwent surgery due to recurrent intractable pain, and uncertainty regarding malignant potential of the adrenal mass given history of multiple cancers in the family. Conclusion: Our case highlights that when indicated, adrenalectomy in the II trimester is a safe and effective option in pregnancy. Individualized treatment should be chosen for each patient following shared decision-making. Presentation: 6/1/2024

7295 Giant Pituitary Adenoma with Rapid Symptomatic Progression and Postoperative Mortality

Abstract Disclosure: R.D. Kennedy: None. M. Nicholson: None. Introduction: Giant pituitary adenomas, defined as pituitary adenomas measuring greater than 4 cm, present a therapeutic challenge because of their size, clinical features, and increased potential for complications following surgical intervention. Early detection and intervention to prevent growth and progression is paramount. We present a case of a patient with a giant 6.3 cm pituitary adenoma who had significant neurologic compromise, requiring surgical intervention, with resultant postoperative complications and death. Case:Patient is a 41 year old male with known history of pituitary adenoma who presented on 11/1/2023, from outside hospital, to the Neuroendocrine clinic with complaints of excessive truncal obesity, impotence, fatigue, and apathy. Vital signs were within normal limits. Physical exam revealed clouding of consciousness, grossly intact cranial nerve function, truncal obesity, and diminished power, tone, and bulk of the extremities. Formal visual field testing revealed bitemporal hemianopsia. A head CT scan revealed a 6.3 cm sellar mass with expansion of the sella, invasion of soft tissue into the sphenoid sinus, and extension of soft tissue cranially to the level of the third ventricle eccentric to the left. There was no evidence of apoplexy. Lab results revealed Prolactin of 924 ng/mL. The patient had been taking Bromocriptine, 2.5 mg daily, for at least three weeks. Less than three weeks after his initial evaluation, he returned to the hospital with complaint of acute ataxia. Pituitary MRI revealed 6.3 cm sellar mass with evidence of acute and subacute blood products, stretching of the optic chiasm from mass effect, extension into the bilateral cavernous sinuses, superior left MCA displacement, posterior left PCA displacement, 5 mm midline shift, uncal herniation and descending transtentorial herniation. The patient underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal resection with subsequent craniotomy for debulking. Postoperatively, he developed new right sided hemiplegia with aphasia with subsequent MRI finding of watershed infarct at the left MCA/PCA lateral posterior border zone territories with increasing mass effect over a 30 day hospital stay. He developed progressive global edema with worsening uncal and tonsillar herniations. Brain death was pronounced on 11/30/23. Discussion:This case highlights the importance of early intervention in patients with giant pituitary adenomas. Our patient had been experiencing right sided weakness for at least one year prior to his admission to our facility. In this case, earlier treatment with a dopamine agonist may have decreased the size of the adenoma or prevented rapid growth. This may have precluded the need for surgical intervention on an adenoma of this size, which carries increased risk for postoperative complications. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Correct patient identification and matching of adults in an ambulatory care setting: a best practice implementation project.

Ambulatory care settings are at high risk for errors when identifying patients and matching them to their intended care. The objective of this project was to improve correct and consistent patient identification and matching to their intended care by nurses in ambulatory care settings. The seven-phase JBI Evidence Implementation Framework was used to guide this project. JBI tools were used to audit current practices and implement best practices in four ambulatory care units. The implementation plan included a baseline audit and two follow-up audits. Feedback was obtained through interviews with ambulatory care nursing staff, educational sessions were conducted for nursing staff, and unit guidelines were developed. In the baseline audit, compliance with best practice criteria for patient matching and identification was below 62% for 7/13 criteria. After conducting education sessions and other strategies, 1/3 pre- and post-clinical intervention criteria improved in compliance, while 2 were unchanged. For blood product administration criteria, 2/5 improved, 1 was unchanged, and 2 were lower than baseline. Nurses' education in patient identification procedures improved (1/1) and knowing where to access relevant policies remained unchanged at 100%. Criteria for patients knowing the importance of patient identification (2/2) and the identification band following national standards (1/1) improved from baseline. The results support the use of education sessions and infrastructure changes to promote and sustain change in evidence-based practice in ambulatory care units. Not all criteria improved, and the audit team identified strategies to improve the implementation of evidence-based practice in ambulatory care units. http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A275.

Prehospital Delta Shock Index Predicts Mortality and Need for Life Saving Interventions in Trauma Patients

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVES The delta shock index (ΔSI), defined as the change in shock index (SI) over time, is associated with hospital morbidity and mortality, but prehospital studies about ΔSI are limited. We investigate the association of prehospital ΔSI with mortality and resource utilization, hypothesizing that increases in SI among field trauma patients are associated with increased mortality and blood product transfusion. METHODS We performed a multicenter, retrospective, observational study from the Linking Investigators in Trauma and Emergency Services (LITES) network. We obtained data from January 2017 to June 2021. We fit logistic regression models to evaluate the association between an increase ΔSI > 0.1 and 28-day mortality and blood product transfusion within 4 hours of emergency department (ED) arrival. We used negative binomial models to evaluate the association between ΔSI > 0.1 and days in hospital, intensive care unit (ICU), and on ventilator (up to 28 days). RESULTS We identified 33,219 prehospital patients. We excluded burn patients and those without documented prehospital or ED heart rate or blood pressure, resulting in 30,511 cases for analysis. In adjusted analysis for the primary outcome of 28-day mortality, patients who had a ΔSI > 0.1 based on initial vital signs were 31% more likely to die (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 1.31, 95% CI 1.21-1.41) compared to those patients who had a ΔSI ≤0.1. These patients also spent 16% more days in hospital (adjusted incident rate ratio (AIRR) 1.16, 95% CI 1.14-1.19), 34% more days in ICU (AIRR 1.34, 95% CI 1.28-1.41), and 61% more days on ventilator (ARR 1.61, 95% CI 1.47-1.75). Additionally, patients with a ΔSI > 0.1 had higher odds of receiving blood products (AOR 2.00, 95% CI 1.88-2.12) within 4 hours of ED arrival. Models fit excluding hypotensive patients performed similarly. CONCLUSIONS An increase of greater than 0.1 in the ΔSI was associated with increased 28-day mortality; increased days in hospital, in ICU, and on ventilator; and increased need for blood product transfusion within 4 hours of ED arrival. This association held true for initially normotensive patients. Validation and implementation are needed to incorporate ΔSI into prehospital and ED triage.

Parvovirus B19 rebound outbreak 2024 and implications for blood- and plasma-product safety.

Since the beginning of 2024, several European countries reported unusually high numbers of Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) infections. An increase in B19V incidence rate might have implications for blood products for direct transfusion, however, large data sets for analysis of this outbreak are missing. B19V nucleic acid testing (NAT) of plasma donations collected between June 2018 and May 2024 from mainly Central European countries (n = 9.6 million) and the United States (n = 70.7 million) was done to the individual donation level. In Central Europe, there was a marked increase in B19V incidence from November 2023 onwards, which peaked in April 2024 with a 33-fold higher than average B19V incidence versus before the COVID-19 pandemic. In the United States, a similar trend was seen, with a yet still 6-fold lower increase than in Europe at the same time. The largest increase in B19V positivity was seen in the youngest plasma donor cohort. A B19V infection gap during the COVID-19 pandemic is likely the basis for the rebound outbreak in 2023/2024, particularly in Europe. B19V NAT of millions of plasma donations provides for large scale numbers to solidify available epidemiology insight, and to support adequate risk assessments. Based on the situation it may be prudent to consider B19V NAT for blood components specifically directed towards transfusion to higher risk recipients, or alternatively, preselecting B19V seropositive individuals or advanced age donors at higher likelihood of seropositivity and thus lower risk of virus transmission.

Prehospital blood transfusion : Opportunities and challenges for the German emergency medical services

Exsanguination is the leading cause of preventable death in severe trauma. Immediate hemorrhage control and transfusion of blood products are critical to maintain oxygen delivery and address trauma-induced coagulopathy. While prehospital blood product transfusion (PHBT) is established in neighboring countries, the fragmented configuration of Germany's emergency medical service (EMS) infrastructure has delayed the adoption of widespread PHBT programmes. This review aims to provide an updated perspective on the evolution, international practices and research needs of PHBT within the German context. This narrative review is based on aPubMed search using the search terms "prehospital" and "blood*". From an initial 4738 articles, 333 were directly related to PHBT and were subjected to further detailed examination. The literature, including referenced studies, was categorized into areas such as history, rationale, international practices, and evidence, and analyzed for quality. The benefit of early blood transfusion in major trauma has been established since WW1, explaining the efforts to initiate this lifesaving intervention as early as possible in the care pathway, including the prehospital field. Recent randomized trials have faced design and recruitment challenges, reflecting the complexity of the research question. These trials have yielded inconclusive results regarding the survival benefits of PHBT in civilian settings. This scenario raises doubts about the capability of randomized trials to resolve questions concerning survival advantages. Despite these difficulties, there is adiscernible trend indicating potential improvements in patient outcomes. In Germany, the incidence of trauma-associated shock stands at 38per 100,000 individuals per year. It is estimated that between 300 and 1800 patients annually possibly benefit from PHBT. Prehospital Blood Transfusion appears to be promising but identifying patient groups most likely to benefit as well as the most suitable blood products remain unresolved issues. In Germany PHBT programs are not yet widely established. Paradoxically, this situation, paired with the extensive German Trauma Registry, provides aprime opportunity for comprehensive prospective cohort studies, addressing the balance between PHBT benefits, logistical feasibility, and implementation strategies. Such studies are essential for establishing guidelines and integrating PHBT efficiently into German trauma care protocols.

PDOC-14 CASE SERIES ON THE MANAGEMENT OF POSTERIOR CRANIAL FOSSA TUMORS AND CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED IN A LOW RESOURCE SETTING: ZIMBABWE

Abstract OBJECTIVES To investigate the management and challenges encountered in caring for patients with posterior cranial fossa tumors in Zimbabwean government central hospitals and their outcomes. METHODS Clinical and surgical records of six paediatric patients diagnosed with posterior cranial fossa tumors and managed at Parirenyatwa group of hospitals and Sally Mugabe Central Hospital over the past 8months were accessed from the hospital archives and utilized to fill in a previously created assessment tool. RESULTS Six cases of posterior fossa tumors were analysed. The ages ranged from 2 to 12 years, with a female-to-male ratio of 2:1. None of the patients underwent standard emergency posterior fossa tumor excision. All of the patients initially had a ventriculoperitoneal shunt inserted for active hydrocephalus due to the unavailability of theatre time, surgical sundries, ICU beds, and blood products. A single patient deceased after developing a complication of upward herniation whilst four patients proceeded to have uneventful excisions of posterior fossa tumors. For the cases that had surgical tumor excision, an average waiting period of 2 weeks was observed between ventriculoperitoneal shunting and surgical excision. One patient was lost to follow-up after shunting. CONCLUSION There are delays in emergency neuro-oncological service delivery in Zimbabwe leading to delayed excision of posterior fossa tumors. These delays have been bridged by CSF diversion through the placement of ventriculoperitoneal shunts while awaiting definitive surgery. Despite these challenges and delays, the outcomes are generally satisfactory.

How to manage a dry socket?- review of the latest treatment methods

Introduction Alveolar osteitis is the most common postoperative complication of tooth extraction. This medical condition has been recognized for decades, however its treatment approach is diverse with varying outcome. Aim of the study The purpose of this review is to examine and discuss contemporary methods of treating dry socket. Through a synthesis of available studies, the paper aims to identify the most beneficial methods to deal with this post-extraction complication. Materials and methods An analysis of scientific articles available in Pubmed and Google Scholar databases was conducted. The study used publications from 2017 to 2024. The search process included the use of the following keywords: “dry socket”, “alveolar osteitis”, “alveolitis sicca dolorosa”, “socket pain treatment”. Results Thirty-five articles were selected and reviewed carefully and independently by all authors. The agents used in the treatment of dry socket were classified as: remedies, drugs and medications, blood products, and technologies. Each group of agents is described with a discussion of their therapeutic efficacy. Summary Dry socket is a common dental problem. Currently, non-invasive methods of treating this complication are preferred. Modern solutions can provide quick and effective therapy. The treatment should relieve discomfort and promote tissue regeneration. Despite various methods, there is still no clear opinion on the best way to treat dry socket.

HGGL-01 GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORM INVOLVING MULTIPLE BRAIN REGIONS ASSOCIATED WITH MUTATIONS IN EXON 4 OF ISOCITRATE DEHYDROGENASE 1 COMPLICATED BY ACUTE KIDNEY FAILURE: A CASE REPORT

Abstract Glioblastoma multiform (GBM), WHO grade 4, is the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults associated with poor prognosis. We present a case of a 43-year-old female, Muyira, diagnosed with GBM involving multiple brain regions and harboring mutations in exon 4 of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1, who subsequently developed acute kidney failure. The patient initially presented with progressive neurological symptoms, including headache and cognitive decline. Multiplanar multiecho MRI of the brain was performed with IV contrast in orthogonal plane and revealed a moderate sized multilobulated heterogeneously and predominantly peripherally enhancing mass lesion with irregular margins and central non enhancing areas of necrosis arising from the right corona radiata, insular cortex, external capsule, lentiform nucleus, temporal, and frontal white matter with blood products. Perilesional edema was seen. Effacement of sulcal spaces. Right sylvian fissure, compression over right ventricle and midline shift of 8mm toward left side. There was dilatation of the left lateral ventricle with periventricular cerebrospinal fluid ooze. Uncal herniation was right side. On MR spectroscopy large choline, creatinine levels were seen in the lesion with reduced N-acetyl aspartate levels as compared to the normal parenchyma. Findings were suggestive of neoplastic lesion mostly high-grade glioma. Polymerase chain reaction sequencing confirmed the presence of missense mutation R132H in exon 4 of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 gene. Despite maximal safe surgical resection, the patient developed acute kidney failure secondary to the nephrotoxic effects of gadolinium. Management of both the primary brain tumor and renal complication necessitated a multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgery, oncology, nephrology, and supportive care. Despite aggressive interventions, the patient’s condition deteriorated, highlighting the challenges in managing concurrent life-threatening conditions in patients with advanced GBM.

Machine learning based analysis of single-cell data reveals evidence of subject-specific single-cell gene expression profiles in acute myeloid leukaemia patients and healthy controls

Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) is characterized by uncontrolled growth of immature myeloid cells, disrupting normal blood production. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation but many patients develop chemoresistance, leading to poor outcomes due to the disease's high heterogeneity. In this study, we used publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data and machine learning to classify AML patients and healthy, monocytes, dendritic and progenitor cells population. We found that gene expression profiles of AML patients and healthy controls can be classified at the individual level with high accuracy (>70 %) when using progenitor cells, suggesting the existence of subject-specific single cell transcriptomics profiles. The analysis also revealed molecular determinants of patient heterogeneity (e.g. TPSD1, CT45A1, and GABRA4) which could support new strategies for patient stratification and personalized treatment in leukaemia.

Significant reduction in blood product usage, same early outcomes: blood conservation in infants undergoing open-heart surgery.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of a blood conservation program on trends in use of donor blood products and early clinical outcomes in infants undergoing open-heart surgery. MethodsFour hundred and nine patients under 1 year of age undergoing open-heart surgery between October 1st, 2020 and June 30th, 2023 were reviewed. The study period was divided into 4 eras with the first era as a pre-blood conservation baseline using traditional blood management. The following 3 eras comprised incremental implementation and evolution of blood conservation strategies. The total volume of blood products transfused for each surgical hospitalization was calculated and indexed to body weight at time of surgery. ResultsThere was no significant difference in age at surgery, body weight, distribution of STAT categories and in post-operative length of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit or hospital length of stay or post-operative mortality (p>0.05 for all) across the 4 eras. Median total volume of blood products administered during hospitalization decreased from 128 (92, 220) mL/kg during the baseline period to 21 (6, 44) mL/kg in the last era (p<0.01). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that later eras were associated with decreased odds of experiencing exposure to blood products during hospitalization. ConclusionsBlood conservation is associated with significant reduction in usage of blood products during open-heart surgery in infants with no significant effect on early outcomes. This trend is observed across all categories of surgical complexity. Additional studies are needed to prove consistency and to determine the longer-term clinical impact of this strategy.

Multidisciplinary care to optimise pregnancy outcomes among Jehovah’s Witness: Case series over fifteen years in a tertiary teaching hospital

ObjectiveTo assess the obstetric and neonatal outcomes of Jehovah’s Witness (JW) mothers and the willingness to accept blood products after multidisciplinary management. Study DesignA retrospective case-control study was conducted at Queen Mary Hospital from 2005 to 2020. Delivery records of pregnant women who identified themselves as JW were reviewed. The immediate next age-matched non-JW patient in the booking register was assigned as control. ResultsA total of 96 subjects were identified within the study period (48 JW and 48 non-JW age-matched patients). The haemoglobin levels of JW and non-JW were similar at booking, 28 weeks of gestation, pre-delivery and postnatal day 2. JW mothers were more likely to receive iron supplements in the antenatal period than the control group (27.1 % vs. 6.3 %, p = 0.01) despite the similar rate of antenatal anemia in both groups (4.2 % vs. 4.2 %, p = 1.00). There were no differences in mode of delivery, total blood loss at delivery, rate of primary postpartum haemorrhage, gestational age at delivery, birth weight, and Apgar score at 1 and 5 min between JW and non-JW. There were no maternal deaths, hysterectomy or admissions to the adult intensive care unit in either group. Six JW women accepted packed cell transfusion at the initial consultation and did not receive multidisciplinary care. The remaining 42 JW women had consultant obstetric and anesthesiologist review before delivery. After multidisciplinary consultation, two (4.8 %, 2/42) accepted blood transmission and 11 (26.2 %, 11/42) accepted some components of blood. The remaining 29 (69 %, 29/42) women refused all blood products. ConclusionJW patients who received multidisciplinary care achieved comparable pregnancy and neonatal outcomes to the normal population. Antenatal iron supplement was more common among pregnant JW despite the similar rate of antenatal anemia compared with the non-JW women. 12.5% of JW women agreed packed cell transfusion at the initial consultation and a further 27.1% of JW women agreed to some forms of blood products after multidisciplinary counseling.

Use of coagulation factor concentrates and blood transfusion in cardiac surgery: a retrospective cohort study of adults with hereditary and acquired bleeding disorders

BackgroundCardiac surgery poses a significant risk of perioperative bleeding and allogeneic blood transfusions, particularly in patients with bleeding disorders. Increasingly frequent use of coagulation factor concentrates could impact haemorrhagic risks, thromboembolic events, and costs. We describe the use of coagulation factor concentrates and allogeneic blood products in cardiac surgical patients with hereditary and acquired bleeding disorders to assess pertinent outcomes, including perioperative haemorrhage, thromboembolism, and hospital costs. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Premier Health Database, including adult cardiac surgical patients diagnosed with hereditary or acquired bleeding disorders compared with those without bleeding disorders. ResultsPatients with acquired bleeding disorders required more extensive use of coagulation factor concentrates and blood products compared with those with hereditary bleeding disorders or without bleeding disorders. The highest exposures to coagulation factor concentrates were found in the acquired bleeding disorders group, with 24% receiving factor VIIa and 11.7% receiving prothrombin complex concentrate. This group also experienced significantly higher rates of complications, including a 15.8% rate of haemorrhage and a 19.2% rate of thromboembolic events. The acquired bleeding disorders group had longer intensive care and hospital stays, and the highest mortality rate (19.2%). The increased use of perioperative replacement of factor VIII and factor IX in the hereditary bleeding disorders group led to increased pharmacy costs but did not significantly impact blood bank charges. ConclusionsAcquired bleeding disorders in cardiac surgery patients are associated with increased use of haemostatic interventions, postoperative complications, and increased healthcare costs. Improved management of perioperative haemostasis and thromboprophylaxis strategies are essential for optimising patient outcomes and reducing expenses.

Defining blood deserts and access to blood products for 660 million people: a geospatial analysis of eight states in Northern India

IntroductionBlood transfusion is crucial, but low-income and middle-income countries like India face a severe shortage of banked blood. This study focuses on the Empowered Action Group (EAG) states in India,...

Ratios of calcium to citrate administration in blood transfusion for traumatic hemorrhage: A retrospective cohort study.

Massive transfusion with citrated blood products causes hypocalcemia, which is associated with mortality. Recognition of this problem has led to increased calcium administration; however, the optimal dosing is still unknown. This retrospective, single-center study included level 1 trauma patients in 2019 and 2020 who underwent an operation within 12 h of arrival and received a transfusion. Preoperative and intraoperative administrations were totaled to calculate the ratio of administered calcium to the number of blood transfusions for each patient. The citrate content of each blood component was estimated to calculate a second ratio, the ratio of administered calcium to administered citrate. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were performed on both ratios to determine the optimal cutoff values for predicting severe hypocalcemia (ionized calcium <0.9 mmol/L) and hypercalcemia (>1.35 mmol/L) at the end of the intraoperative period. A total of 506 trauma activations were included, receiving a mean of 17.4 citrated blood products and 16.3 mmol of calcium (equivalent to 2400 mg of calcium chloride). No ratio was statistically significant in differentiating severely hypocalcemic patients from the rest. A calcium to blood ratio of 0.903 mmol of administered calcium per citrated blood product differentiated hypercalcemic patients from the rest. Quantifying received calcium and citrated blood products was insufficient to predict severe hypocalcemia, suggesting other contributions to hypocalcemia. We demonstrated an upper-limit ratio for calcium administration in traumatic hemorrhage; however, further studies are required to determine what calcium dosing regimen results in the best outcomes.

Mortality association with extremity trauma and transferring patients for higher level of care

Introduction: Rising healthcare costs and reduced Medicaid reimbursements pose lasting challenges for trauma centers. Various studies have highlighted the adverse effect of these cost-related circumstances on trauma center survival and the need for local hospitals to transfer patients to tertiary and quaternary care centers. Our study seeks to assess the relationship between patient transfer status to a higher level health center and association on mortality. Methods: A total of 19,417 patients were identified, of which 15,317 patients presented directly to the higher level health center, and 3,830 patients who transferred from 49 different outside hospitals within a 500 mile radius. Data collection was collected from the receiving higher level of care hospital trauma registry. IBM SPSS version 23 was used to analyze the data. A 1:1 propensity matched analysis based on age, gender, and injury severity score yielded 3,566 patients that presented directly to ARMC and 3,566 patients who were transferred to ARMC for higher level of care. Amongst various factors we considered mechanism of injury, response levels, arrival methods, and transfusion of blood products. Results: The univariate analysis of the propensity matched analysis demonstrated 88% blunt injury in the non-transferred group and 82% in the transferred group (P&lt;0.001). Overall, hospital mortality was 3% in non-transferred patients versus 4% in the transferred group (P&lt;0.001). A multivariate logistic regression demonstrated mortality is more likely in patients with higher injury severity scores (Odd Ratio (OD) 2.351 (1.029-1.082), P&lt;0.001) and lack of packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions received within first 4 hours (OD 6.852 (3.525-13.318), P=0.001). Conclusion: The transfer of trauma patients with extremity injuries to Level 1 trauma centers has significant implications on patient outcomes. In our retrospective observational cohort study, we noted increased mortality among patients with higher injury severity scores, penetrating injuries, pRBC administration within the first 4 hours of hospitalization, and among patient transfers.