Hemoglobin solutions--not just red blood cell substitutes.

OBJECTIVE: To review current knowledge about cell-free hemoglobin solutions.

DATA SOURCES: All studies involving cell-free hemoglobin were retrieved from a computerized MEDLINE search from 1980 to 1998. We also reviewed the reference lists of all available review articles and primary studies to identify references not found in the computerized search.

STUDY SELECTION: Clinical and experimental studies in which cell-free hemoglobin solutions were studied.

DATA EXTRACTION: From the selected studies, information was obtained regarding the experimental model or the study population in which cell-free hemoglobin solutions were investigated, the type of cell-free hemoglobin solution, their deleterious or beneficial effects, and their possible indications.

DATA SYNTHESIS: In many studies, hemoglobin solutions were considered as efficient resuscitative agents and good alternatives to red blood cell transfusion, because of their marked vasopressor effect coupled with their capacity to improve the microcirculation and quickly restore metabolic parameters. Nevertheless, potential problems include an increased susceptibility to infection, immunosuppression, oxidative damage, excessive pulmonary and systemic vasoconstriction, and platelet activation.

CONCLUSIONS: Hemoglobin solutions are more than mere blood substitutes. Promising effects on oxygen transport and the microcirculation need to be confirmed, and the results of continuing research are eagerly awaited.