Characteristics of Sickle Cell Disease Recipients and Blood Donors, and Exploratory Associations With Previous Transfusion Reactions, at KWASUTH, Ilorin: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Red-cell transfusion is an important component of sickle cell disease (SCD) care but may be complicated by alloimmunisation and transfusion reactions. Local data on recipient transfusion history and donor characteristics can inform service planning. Objective: To describe SCD recipients and blood donors attending Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Ilorin, and to explore associations between previous transfusion exposure and self-reported previous transfusion reactions. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 50 SCD recipients and 50 blood donors. Sociodemographic and transfusion/donation histories were collected using structured questionnaires. The supplied manuscript also described laboratory testing, but laboratory results were not available for this revision. Descriptive statistics were reported. A univariable logistic regression relating previous transfusion exposure to a history of transfusion reaction was supplied and is presented as exploratory pending verification. Results: Recipients had a mean age of 7.6 years (SD 4.3); 30 (60.0%) were female and 30 (60.0%) had reportedly received at least two previous transfusions. Eight recipients (16.0%) reported a previous transfusion reaction. Donors had a mean age of 32.1 years (SD 9.1); 32 (64.0%) were male and 26 (52.0%) were self-employed. The supplied univariable model reported an odds ratio of 1.80 (95% CI 1.03-3.16; p=0.039) per unit increase in the variable labelled “blood transfusion”; the exact coding and validity of this analysis require confirmation. Conclusion: The descriptive data indicate repeated transfusion exposure among paediatric SCD recipients and a reported history of transfusion reaction in a minority. No conclusion about molecular typing or laboratory predictors can be drawn from the supplied results. A corrected analysis and complete laboratory dataset are required before publication.