The use of prophylactic partial exchange tranfusion in pregnancies associated with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies.

Sickle cell anemia is associated with an alarming attrition rate during pregnancy. The maternal morbidity rate, perinatal wastage rate, and the incidence of severe morbidity in both mother and child are elevated above acceptable limits. In most cases, these statistics have been compiled using conservative therapeutic modalities. In contrast, this report utilizes prophylactic partial exchange transfusion therapy in patients with severe sickle cell hemoglobinopathies. The protocol involves the introduction of 750-1000 cc of buffy coat, poor washed red cells exchanged with 1000-1500 cc whole blood during phlebotomy at 28 weeks' gestation and again prior to term. Thirty-six consecutive pregnant patients with sickle cell anemia have been managed in this fashion. The one maternal mortality occurred in a patient who did not complete the protocol. Major maternal morbidity and perinatal wastage rates were significantly decreased. Two cases of serum hepatitis occurred. It appears from these data that the use of prophylactic partial exchange transfusion in pregnant patients with severe sickle cell hemoglobinopathies can be of benefit. Further trials of this method seem justified by these results to assess completely the benefit-risk ratio of this procedure.