Leukodepletion status of blood products and transfusion reactions in thalassemic patients

Background and Objectives: Multi-transfused thalassemic patients are prone to transfusions related complications. Study of these reactions and correlating them with the leukodepletion of the transfused packed red blood cells (PRBCs) reduces transfusion complications due to the transfused leukocytes. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study carried out on 1152 transfusions in 161 thalassemic patients at our institute between January 2011 and December 2011. The total transfusions were classified into three categories depending on the leukodepletion status of the PRBC. The clinical records and the reaction workup done to rule out the hemolytic reactions were recorded. Results: Reactions were noted in three (0.2%) out of 161 thalassemic patients were recorded. Two reactions were recorded on transfusions of leukoreduced (buffy-coat method) and one reaction in nonleukoreduced PRBC, respectively. No reactions were recorded on transfusions leucodepleted done by bedside filter. Conclusion: Leukodepletion by using bedside filter is a better method for avoiding transfusion reactions. Though in resource limited settings, leukoreduction using the buffy-coat method is also effective in reducing the transfusion reactions. Leukoreduction of transfused blood cellular components in thalassemic patients is helpful in preventing transfusion reactions.