Home Transfusion for Patients with Hemophilia A

Abstract

A program was established to train relatives of hemophiliac patients deficient in antihemophilic factor to administer concentrate of the factor intravenously at home after telephone consultation with the physician. Eighteen months' experience with the program indicates that with careful medical supervision, home transfusion is practical and safe. Consumption of antihemophilic-factor concentrate is increased, probably because of greater willingness to report hemorrhages. The number of school or work days lost is decreased on the program, but it is too early to estimate lower morbidity in terms of permanent joint damage. Patients and their relatives are enthusiastic because of the time saved, rapid relief of pain and opportunity of helping the patient within the family unit. Until prophylactic therapy becomes feasible, home transfusion is a reasonable substitute.