Efficacy of Automated Red Cell Exchange for Sickle Cell Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: Sickle cell disease is a hereditary hemoglobinopathy commonly seen in sub-Saharan Africa, India, and the Middle East. It is caused by a mutation in the β-globin gene and is associated with both acute and chronic multiorgan complications, including severe anemia and stroke. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out over a period of one year (2022-2023) among patients with sickle cell disease. Automated red cell exchange was performed using a continuous-flow cell separator to assess the procedural efficiency. RESULTS: A total of 30 male and female patients with sickle cell disease from districts surrounding Indore were included. The mean age was 23.4 years, and procedures were performed for various indications as per the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) guidelines. Most cases, 27 (90%), fell under category II. Thirty automated red cell exchange procedures were performed. Among these, 17 (57%) patients achieved a hemoglobin S (HbS) reduction of 71-80%, eight (27%) >81% reduction, four (13%) 61-70% reduction, and one (3%) <60% reduction. CONCLUSION: Automated red cell exchange led to significant improvement in multiple hematological parameters, including hemoglobin levels, hematocrit, indirect bilirubin, and HbS percentage, supporting its effectiveness in the management of sickle cell disease.