Transfusion
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Management of severe symptomatic anemia is exceptionally challenging when blood transfusions cannot be administered. Use of hemoglobin (Hb)-based oxygen carriers as "bridging treatment" can be an option. ⋯ This report documents the successful management of profound anemia in an acute leukemia patient who refused blood transfusion, with the use of Hemopure, to save the patient from the devastating effects of ischemia associated with severe anemia. Hemopure may represent a life-saving intervention in patients with severe symptomatic anemia when blood transfusion is not an option.