Phlebotomy in 2 days for iron unloading. Question.

I have pkd and a hb of about 6. I will be starting on a series of mini phlebotomies for iron unloading. I am very aware that this is atypical treatment for a person with such a low hb. However, my docs feel I can handle it because I have a very high retic count.  Anyway, I was hoping someone could shed some light on what I could expect.  If 100 cc of blood is removed, how much do you think it will drop my hb? If all goes well, they will increase the phlebotomies by 50 cc during the following weeks. The goal is 200 cc's which is less than half of a normal iron unloading phlebotomy.  I'm truly not looking forward to this process at all, but I want to at least try their idea. If anyone can answer my question or has a prediction about what the effects will be, please share. I really appreciate any opinions.  I've already started to work on getting super hydrated do I'm in good shape for Monday!

Removing one unit of blood (about 450 ml) will lower Hb about one point, so once 200 ml is taken, you may see close to a 1/2 point drop in Hb.

Retic count will normally be high if Hb is low. I would say this is quite an unusual approach, as phlebotomies are generally only done if the Hb is at least 12.5. I'm glad you're hydrating well, as it is the main thing you can do to help yourself while having phlebotomies done.

Boston Children's is a top hospital for hematological disorders. You are in excellent hands.