Sideroblastic Anaemia - Anaesthetic Considerations during Emergency Ophthalmic Surgeries

The sideroblastic anemias comprise a heterogeneous group of acquired and congenital disorders which that have in common: (1) anemia; (2) the presence of ring sideroblasts in the bone marrow; and (3) impaired heme biosynthesis. Elevation in iron levels is secondary to a deficiency in mitochondrial physiology. Patients exhibit mild to moderate hemolysis due to peripheral red blood cell destruction, and often require regular blood transfusions. The purpose of this case report was to describe the anaesthetic management of a child with congenital sideroblastic anemia�a rare hematologic disorder for an emergency ophthalmic surgery and to emphasize how important it is for anaesthetists and ophthalmologists to be cognizant of a patient�s hematologic profile before attempting to perform procedure. The timing of the patient, s transfusions regarding the scheduling of surgery is crucial for successful management and anticipation of possible complications.