What is a clinical indication for using deglycerolized red blood cells?

Deglycerolized red blood cells are particularly useful in situations where there is an increased need for transfusions, often due to situations such as trauma or significant blood loss. The processing of these red blood cells involves glycerol, which acts as a cryoprotectant, making it possible to freeze and store the cells for longer periods. When these cells are thawed and deglycerolized, they can be transfused without the risk of the harmful effects that might occur with their storage in a non-frozen state.

This makes them especially valuable during periods of high transfusion requirements, where maintaining adequate red blood cell supply is critical for patient care. The careful management and utilization of these cells mean they are not typically used for routine transfusions in stable patients, nor are they limited to pediatric patients or designated as standard treatment for anemia. Instead, their specific application when blood demand is high aptly captures their clinical utility.