Asian Hematology Research Journal

Management of Severe Aplastic Anaemia in a Jehovah’s Witness patient: The challenge and Lessons

Nelson I. Oguanobi *

Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria and Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria

Augustine N. Duru

Department of Haematology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu, Nigeria and Department of Haematology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria

Paul C. Okorie

Department of Radiology, Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, Nigeria

Amobi O. Egwuonwu

Department of Surgery, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria and Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Nnewi Campus, Anambra State, Nigeria.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

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Abstract

Aplastic anaemia is a life threatening consequence of severe bone marrow failure often requiring supportive care with component blood transfusions and stem cell replacement procedures. In this case report and review of literature, the authors highlight peculiar challenges in the management of severe aplastic anaemia in patients with strong objection to blood transfusion. The impact of optimal use of blood transfusion alternative pharmacological strategies on clinical outcome indices is evaluated and relevant lessons in the management of this unique category of patients in poor resource environments are learned.

Keywords: Aplastic anaemia, jehovah’s witnesses, transfusion-alternatives, challenges, lessons

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