“Is this ok before a blood transfusion?”
l had Aml leukemia and stem cell transplant from a donor on Sept 28, 2016. I have been taking cellcept and I got graft vs host disease in July 2021 I started taking 10mg 0f Jakafi. Since then my hemoglobin has dropped to 8.1. I usually have a count of 9.8 to 10. How low can count go before a blood transfusion?
Female | 71 years old
4 Answers
Hematologist-Oncologist|Hematology&OncologyHematologist
Below 7.0 to 8.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL) Healthy hemoglobin levels are between 11.0 to 18.0 grams/dL. Thank you.
It depends on your symptoms. Most physicians don't want their patients to go below 7.
Thanks.
RB Thomas, MD
Thanks.
RB Thomas, MD
This is variable depending on age and condition. You should talk to your hematologist about red cell stimulants such as erythropoietin which may make transfusions unnecessary.
Transfusions are often given below 8, but they depend on how your energy is, and if you are weak and tired, they could be administered for a higher hemoglobin. I hope you are taking iron by mouth if your serum iron is low to try to raise your hemoglobin.
