Age of Blood in Sickle Cell Transfusion

The Investigators hypothesize that older red cell units trigger phagocytosis and activation of circulating macrophages with a downstream immunomodulatory cascade and release of excess Non Transferrin Bound Iron(NTBI) that leads to increased rates of infection in adults with Sickle Cell Disease(SCD). To test this hypothesis, the study staff will perform a randomized prospective clinical trial. In aim 1, the study staff will determine the biochemical differences between ≥30 day-old versus ≤10 day-old units. In aim 2, the study staff will determine the physiologic effects of the transfused blood in a patient with SCD. Lastly, in aim 3, the study staff will explore the clinical implications of receiving older red cells over a 3 month period.