Critical issues in hematology: anemia, thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, and blood product transfusions in critically ill patients

Anemia, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy commonly occur among critically ill patients. Pursuing structured evaluations of these hematologic problems is essential to successful diagnosis and management. Certain clinical circumstances warrant administration of red blood cells, platelets, or plasma products, but potential benefits of blood product transfusions must be balanced against risks. This article reviews evaluation of anemia, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy and examines clinical circumstances that guide blood product use.