In hematology we often transfuse red blood cells and platelets for a number of different conditions.
But what about neutrophils?
A short Schitts Creek themed tweetorial thread 🧵
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Turns out granulocyte infusions are a thing but there are many reasons why you haven’t likely heard of or used them.
They’re typically used when pt
🩸is very neutropenic
🩸has severe bacterial or fungal infxn unresponsive to antimicrobials
🩸marrow recovery is expected. 2/
But giving granulocytes is tricky.
🩸they start to lose function ~6 hrs & shelf life is 24 hrs
🩸infectious donor testing typically takes 24-48 hrs
🩸contain RBCs so must be ABO/Rh compatible
🩸CMV neg pts need CMV neg cells
🩸donors must be stimulated for collection 3/
It is estimated that ~400 genes (~2% of genome) are involved in iron metabolism & homeostasis.
In addition to irons role in erythropoiesis (making red blood cells), iron participates in energy production & electron transport, cell metabolism, respiration, proliferation..
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& differentiation, regulation of gene expression & synthesis of nucleus acids & proteins.
Iron is also the cofactor of aromatic amino acid hydroxylases!
The activity of these enzymes is the limiting step in the synthesis of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine
But the bigger point is that iron deficiency matters OUTSIDE of anemia.
Studies have shown ID can cause fatigue, ⬇️ concentration, dizziness, tinnitus, pallor, headache, alopecia, sleep disorders esp restless legs, pica & more. 3/