Blood Transfusions

For some children, blood transfusions offer a lifeline. This treatment can make it easier to stay healthy while living with certain rare and complex conditions. As an internationally recognized leader in pediatric blood diseases, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles offers exceptional blood transfusion services. We deliver safe, appropriate care in a child-centered environment.

What Is a Blood Transfusion? Who Needs Transfusions?

A blood transfusion is a treatment that delivers blood cells from a healthy donor. Children may need a transfusion for certain blood diseases or cancer treatment side effects. Some children need transfusions every few weeks (transfusion therapy).

Conditions we treat with blood transfusions include:

  • Bone marrow disease
  • Severe, ongoing anemia
  • Sickle cell disease
  • Hemophilia
  • Thalassemia
  • Cancer
  • Bone marrow transplant

Blood Transfusion Safety

Blood consists of plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. It also contains antigens, which are substances that trigger an immune system attack. There are different types of antigens. Receiving blood with antigens that are not compatible with the ones in your blood can trigger a potentially life-threatening complication.  
Blood from related donors, including parents and siblings, may lower this risk. But if family members are not a match, it’s necessary to use blood from an unknown blood donor. CHLA screens donors’ blood for potential problems and carefully tests it before transfusions. These efforts help your child have a safe transfusion experience.

More Information About Pediatric Blood Transfusions

Blood transfusions take place in our Infusion Center. Your child receives services from nurses certified in infusion care for children, adolescents and young adults. Our team is setting national standards for pediatric and young adult infusion services.

We offer entertainment and activities to keep your child busy during transfusions. Early morning, late afternoon and weekend appointments are available to minimize disruptions to your family’s busy schedule. Get more information about our Infusion Center.

Preventing Transfusion Therapy Complications

A complication of transfusion therapy is iron overload disorder. With each transfusion, your child receives a significant amount of iron, and the body cannot eliminate it. Instead, iron builds up in the organs, including the liver, kidney and heart. Over time, too much iron can cause organ failure.  

CHLA is home to pioneering efforts for assessing, preventing and managing this condition. We use advanced techniques to catch the early signs of any problems so your child receives appropriate care. Read more about our iron overload disorder care.  

Become a Blood Donor

Blood donors help us meet about 90% of our blood needs, but we need your help. Every month, we use thousands of blood units for transfusions and need a steady supply to keep up with this demand. Donating blood is safe, easy and convenient.

We offer special donation programs where you can donate blood to a specific patient. You can also find out if you’re a match for a difficult-to-find blood type. Learn more about our Blood Donor Center.

Hematology Treatments at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

At Children’s Hospital, your child has access to innovative treatments and leading-edge care for blood diseases. Learn more about our Cancer and Blood Disease treatments.

Contact us

The Cancer and Blood Disease Institute welcomes new patients, referrals and second opinions. Please call us to make an appointment.

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