

Bloody Minded
Bloody Minded Crew
Baffled by blood? Confused by coags? Traumatised by TTP? Planning on quitting medical school because you've just finished haem block? Join the registrars of the Bloody Minded Crew as they tour the world of haematology one topic at at a time while procrastinating from their day jobs. Your time is precious, so to maximise your return we look at each topic at a variety of levels so you can tailor your learning. Check out more at www.bloodyminded.com.au
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 20, 2025 • 34min
Episode 46 - A PerPLEXing Journey | Introduction to Apheresis
Dive into the fascinating world of apheresis, where blood components are transformed for better medical use. Discover how ancient practices trace back to Hippocrates while modern machines perform plasma exchange. Engage with the complexities of patient consent and potential complications, including citrate toxicity. The hosts blend humor and insight as they explore the procedure’s significance in treating conditions like sickle cell disease. Uncover the magic of separating blood into its components and the clinical guidelines that make it all possible.

May 6, 2025 • 59min
Episode 45 - Much A-B-O about Nothing | Transfusing A-B-O Mismatched Transplants with Dr Eoghan Molloy
Join our visiting expert Dr Eoghan Molloy - Multitalented transfusion medicine specialist and consultant haematologist at Cork University Hospital to teach us how to cross the ABO Rubicon and provide transfusion support in ABO mismatched transplantation. Visit the lab and see what happens to the forward and reverse group when you're in the middle of changing groups. Brush up on your major, minor and bidirectional mismatches as the generally mismatched Bloody Minded Crew learn from a real expert again. PS Nick had his microphone set to ASMR so there are a few hiccups in the audio quality but the content was too good to missTimestamps:0:59 - Nick's real overseas friend2:52 - Intro to Dr Eoghan Molloy9:10 - ABO incompatibilities in transplant15:19 - Graft manipulation17:47 - Patient preparation in ABO mismatch20:44 - Provision of blood products in transplant32:51 - Red cell aplasia in transplant38:16 - Passenger lymphocyte syndrome40:37 - CMV in transplant46:06 - Irradiated products52:12 - Clinical case and wrap upSupport the showCheck out show notes, additional references and (sometimes) extra content at www.bloodyminded.com.au

Apr 29, 2025 • 39min
Episode 44 - MAIPA Madness | FNAIT & Platelet Testing
Dive into the world of complex hematology with a lighthearted twist! Explore the quirky MAIPA test that combines four antibodies in one test, alongside amusing food analogies. Uncover the intricacies of fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) and the clinical strategies for managing it. Get insights on the essential collaboration between hematology and neonatal teams, plus the challenges of treating immune thrombocytopenic purpura during pregnancy and optimizing transfusion protocols. It's educational and entertaining!

Apr 22, 2025 • 46min
Episode 43 - When your number’s not up | Platelet Refractoriness
Dive into the complexities of platelet refractoriness and its impact on transfusion medicine. Explore the immune mechanisms that trigger poor responses despite transfusions, and learn about the crucial role of HLA matching in improving outcomes. The discussion covers the importance of understanding platelet increments and the various factors leading to refractoriness, including infections and medications. Discover innovative management strategies to enhance donor availability and minimize complications, making transfusions safer and more effective.

Apr 15, 2025 • 49min
Episode 42 - In The Lab: Rare Groups, Subgroups, Elutes and Fruit Loops | Advanced Blood Banking
Delve into the fascinating world of rare blood groups and their impact on transfusion medicine. Explore the complexities of blood types and how racial variations influence practices in blood banking. Learn about advanced techniques like enzyme treatments that help in identifying antigens and resolving discrepancies. Discover the importance of specific blood group systems like Kell, Duffy, and Kidd, while also uncovering the challenges posed by monoclonal antibodies. It's a deep dive into the intricate, often overlooked, aspects of blood banking.

Apr 8, 2025 • 36min
Episode 41 - Transfusion for Two | HDFN and Anti-D
Dive into the intriguing world of blood transfusions in pregnancy, where the stakes are higher than ever. The discussion uncovers the challenges of managing hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) and the crucial role of anti-D prophylaxis. Learn how intrauterine transfusions work and why CMV seronegative donors are vital for fetal safety. With expert insights on ABO incompatibility and the advancements in non-invasive prenatal testing, this conversation is a blend of vital knowledge and engaging humor.

Apr 1, 2025 • 54min
Episode 40 - On The Wards: The Antibodies of Wrath | IVIG and Rituximab Reactions
In this enlightening discussion, consultant haematologist Alison Chandler shares her expertise on infusion reactions related to IVIG and Rituximab. She demystifies these antibody treatments, explaining their origins and how they're used in various medical scenarios. The conversation dives into acute and delayed reactions during IVIG administration, as well as safety protocols and the amusing complexities of antibody naming. With humor woven throughout, Alison makes these intricate topics accessible and engaging for both newbies and seasoned pros in healthcare.

Mar 25, 2025 • 35min
Episode 39 - Tweaks and Tune-Ups | A Guide to Blood Product Modifications
Explore the fascinating world of blood product modifications and their crucial implications. Learn how blood banks operate and the significance of aging blood. Discover the importance of leukodepletion and CMV-negative products, especially for high-risk patients. Navigate the complexities of HLA matching and its role in transfusion safety. Uncover the critical challenges faced by rare blood type patients and understand the preventive measures against TA-GVHD. This insightful conversation invites you to rethink blood transfusion protocols.

Mar 18, 2025 • 38min
Episode 38 - Infinity Products | Massive Transfusion Protocols
Dive into the intense world of massive transfusion protocols, where timing and coordination are crucial in life-or-death situations. Discover the ethical dilemmas surrounding blood transfusions and the pressing need for informed consent. Explore challenges such as the scarcity of key blood products and the complexities of coagulopathy and hypothermia. This engaging discussion also highlights innovative practices, like whole blood transfusions, aiming for balanced patient care during traumatic emergencies.

Mar 11, 2025 • 33min
Episode 37 - In The Lab: Red Cell Matchmaking | Group and Hold, Antibody Screen, Crossmatch
Dive into the fascinating world of blood transfusion science! Discover the intricacies of blood grouping, antibody screening, and the all-important crossmatch. Learn about the critical tests that ensure the right match between donor and recipient, including the roles of IgM and IgG antibodies. The podcast also unwraps common misconceptions about O-negative blood and the complexities of antiglobulin testing. Get ready for an educational yet humorous journey through the lab as the hosts highlight the vital aspects of ensuring safe transfusions!