IMPROVED EXERCISE PERFORMANCE AFTER EXCHANGE-TRANSFUSION IN SUBJECTS WITH SICKLE-CELL ANEMIA

  • 1 January 1980
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 56  (6) , 1127-1131
Abstract
Ten patients with sickle cell anemia underwent partial exchange transfusion with Hb-A-containing cells using a technique that allowed Hb concentration and blood volume to remain constant. The mean fraction of Hb-A in these patients increased from 9-55%, but the mean Hb concentration increased by only 1.44 g/dl. The exchange resulted in a large improvement in submaximal exercise capacity: the mean of the anaerobic threshold (the work at which lactic acid begins to accumulate in the blood) increased from 68 to 114 W. The mean work performed at a heart rate of 170/min, an estimation of maximal work capacity, increased from 128 to 187 W. Improved exercise performance after partial exchange transfusion may result from the superior flow properties of Hb-A-containing red cells. Exercise testing in sickle cell anemia may have great potential utility as a means to monitor therapy and to evaluate the benefits of exchange transfusion.

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