These guidelines recommend extended red cell antigen typing and prophylactic matching for Rh and K antigens for all transfused SCD patients. They also address the management of alloimmunization, hyperhemolysis, iron overload, and transfusion strategies in specific clinical scenarios such as acute chest syndrome and pregnancy.

Four panelists disclosed receiving payments or other transfers of value from companies that could be affected by the guidelines, although this occurred after recommendations were finalized.

These guidelines provide a comprehensive overview of transfusion support in SCD, addressing key clinical questions and providing specific recommendations for practice. Although many recommendations are conditional due to the limited availability of high-certainty evidence, the guidelines offer valuable guidance based on the best available data and expert consensus. The identification of research priorities is also helpful to guide future research in this area.