Frequency of Transfusion-Transmitted Infections and Associated Factors in Children With β-Thalassemia Receiving Regular Blood Transfusions

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18127540

Abstract

Background: β-thalassemia is a hereditary hemoglobin disorder that often requires lifelong blood transfusions, placing affected children at increased risk of transfusion-transmitted infections. Objective: To determine the frequency of transfusion-transmitted infections and associated factors among children with β-thalassemia receiving regular blood transfusions. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 100 children diagnosed with β-thalassemia. Demographic data, clinical findings, and transfusion history were recorded. Blood samples were screened for hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency virus using standard serological methods.  Results: The study included 100 children with β-thalassemia (mean age 7.07 ± 3.05 years; 56% male). β-thalassemia major was present in 95% of patients. Clinically, 49% had hepatosplenomegaly with pallor and jaundice. Overall, 38% had transfusion-transmitted infections, with hepatitis B virus (28%) being the most common, followed by hepatitis C virus (8%) and HIV (2%). Infection rates were significantly higher in children weighing >20 kg (57.9% vs. 25.8%, p = 0.001) and in those with a disease duration of 7–12 years (57.6% vs. 28.4%, p = 0.005). No significant association was observed between infection status and type of β-thalassemia (p = 0.52). Conclusion: It is concluded that transfusion-transmitted infections are common among children with β-thalassemia, with hepatitis B virus being the most frequently identified infection. Increased infection risk is associated with longer disease duration and higher body weight, reflecting cumulative transfusion exposure, while the type of β-thalassemia shows no significant association.