Current perspectives and updates on transfusion strategies in critically ill anemic patients

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Source: Frontiers Medicine

Original: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2026.1762664...

Published: 2026-03-10T00:00:00Z

Anemia is a common disease in critically ill patients, which is treated by transfusion of red blood cells in order to increase the level of hemoglobin and improve tissue oxygenation[1][3]. Current clinical guidelines favor a restrictive transfusion strategy (hemoglobin 7–9 g/dL) in hemodynamically stable patients without acute coronary syndrome or active bleeding[1]. A liberal strategy with higher hemoglobin thresholds is only preferable for patients with underlying cardiovascular disease, critical condition, or surgical candidates[1]. Transfusion decisions should be based on the patient's clinical condition and anemia symptoms, not just on arbitrary hemoglobin or hematocrit values[3]. Excessive use of red blood cell transfusions increases the risk of adverse effects such as allergic reactions, infections, sepsis, and lung damage[1]. Clinical studies have shown that a restrictive strategy does not lead to increased mortality and morbidity in hospitalized patients[1]. An individualized approach that takes into account the specific clinical conditions of the patient represents a third option for optimizing the balance between the risks and benefits of transfusion[3].