Transfusion Practices in Pediatrics at Tengandogo University Hospital from July 1 to October 31, 2022

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Résumé

Abstract
Objective: To describe the epidemiological, clinical, biological, transfusion-re-
lated, and outcome aspects of children transfused in the pediatric department of
Tengandogo University Hospital. Methods: A prospective descriptive study was
conducted from July 1 to October 31, 2022. Children aged 0 - 15 years hospital-
ized and receiving at least one blood transfusion were included. Data were col-
lected from medical records and hemovigilance forms, then analyzed using
SPSS® version 20.0. Results: Among 512 hospitalized children, 108 were trans-
fused (21.1%). The mean age was 32.9 ± 39 months, and 84.3% were under five
years old. Malaria was the leading etiology (62%). The mean hemoglobin level
increased from 5.1 g/dL before transfusion to 8.1 g/dL after transfusion. Packed
red blood cells (PRBCs) were used in 93.5% of cases. Most transfusions (71%)
were performed within 24 hours of the request, with a mean volume of 153.5
mL. Adverse effects occurred in 5.6% of children, mainly non-hemolytic febrile
reactions. Hemovigilance forms were correctly completed in 64.1% of cases, but
only 41.7% were returned to the blood bank. Clinical outcomes were favorable
in 54.6% of children, while 17.5% died. Conclusion: Blood transfusion remains
a cornerstone in the management of severe pediatric anemia. Despite satisfac-
tory hemoglobin improvement and relatively few adverse effects, transfusion
delays, high mortality, and insufficient hemovigilance highlight major chal-
lenges in transfusion safety. Strengthening blood product availability, improv-
ing traceability, and establishing hemovigilance committees are priorities to op-
timize pediatric transfusion practices and reduce mortality.

Mots-clés

Blood Transfusion, Pediatrics, Transfusion Safety, Hemovigilance, Burkina