Prevalence of transfusion transmitted infections in beta thalassaemia multi-transfused children in Central India: a cross-sectional study

Background: Although, transfusion transmitted infection (TTI) is reduced, at least 1 million new infections of hepatitis C virus (HCV) occur annually. Its prevalence among thalassaemia patients ranges from 4-85%.
Objectives: To estimate prevalence of TTI, clinical profile and risk factors of infection among transfusion dependent beta-thalassaemia (TDT) children.
Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on TDT children aged 2-12 years, over 9 months at a daycare centre in Central India. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Haematologic, biochemical and microbiological investigations were done.
Results:  Of total 63 children, 50 (79.4%) were above age of 5 years and male to female ratio was 1.25:1; 42 (66.7%) resided in rural areas and 50 (79.4%) belonged to lower socio-economic class. Family history of disease was present in 54 (84.1%). Mean age of presentation was 12.96 ±11.19 months and mean age of first transfusion was 13.15 ± 11.07 months; 50 (77.4%) required monthly transfusion; 51 (81%) were on chelation therapy; 39.7% had TTI (HCV 38.1%, syphilis 1.6%). Children un-immunized to special vaccine (p=0.003), splenectomy (p<0.0001), chelation therapy (p=0.02) were significant risk factors for TTI.
Conclusions: Prevalence of TTI was 39.7% (HCV 38.1% and syphilis 1.6%). Children un-immunized to special vaccine, splenectomy and chelation therapy were significant risk factors for TTI.