Guidelines on the use of irradiated blood components

Dr Paula Bolton Maggs presents the podcast on the Guidelines on the use of irradiated blood components.

To provide healthcare professionals with clear guidance on situations when the use of irradiated blood components is indicated. The term ‘blood component’ means the therapeutic constituents of human blood (red cells, white cells, platelets and plasma) that can be prepared by various methods (JPAC　https://www.transfusionguidelines.org/red‐book/definitions). The multidisciplinary writing group developed evidence‐based clarification and practical guidance in clinical areas of ambiguity. Publications relating to patients of all age groups have been assessed. The guidance may not be appropriate in all patient situations and assessment of individual circumstances with the appropriate risk assessments and patient involvement may lead to alternative decisions.

Dr Bolton Maggs discusses the guideline in three parts but also, stresses that the podcast is not a substitute for reading the guideline:

1) Background on the use of irradiation and new evidence on aetiology of transfusion - associated - graft - versus - disease.

2) Specific issues for Hodgins and non Hodgins lymphoma

3) Summary of the changes for paediatric transfusion

Dr Bolton- Maggs has recently retired as a Consultant Haematologist and Director of Serious Hazards of Transfusion (SHOT).