Complications of the Patient with Hemophilia Associated with Transfusion of Blood Components or Derivatives: 35 Cases

Abstract

Hemophilia is a congenital bleeding disorder characterized by deficient or absent clotting factors, most commonly Factor VIII (Hemophilia A) or Factor IX (Hemophilia B). Regular transfusions of blood products, such as clotting factor concentrates and plasma derivatives, are essential in managing bleeding episodes in hemophilic patients. However, transfusion therapy is not without risks. This study aims to explore the complications associated with blood component transfusion in 35 hemophilic patients, analyzing a range of adverse events that arose following transfusion therapy. The study retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 35 hemophilic patients who received blood component transfusions over a 2-years period. Data were collected on the type of transfused products, the number of transfusions, and the complications encountered. These complications included allergic reactions, the development of inhibitors (antibodies against transfused clotting factors), viral infections (such as hepatitis and HIV), iron overload, and thrombotic events. A total of 35 hemophilic patients (27 male, 8 female) participated in this study. The mean age was 34.2 years, with a range spanning from 8 to 68 years. Hemophilia A (n = 22, 62.9%) was more common than Hemophilia B (n = 13, 37.1%). The severity of hemophilia was categorized as severe (n = 15, 42.9%), moderate (n = 12, 34.3%), and mild (n = 8, 22.8%). The mean number of transfusions per patient was 10.3, with clotting factor concentrates being the most frequently used transfusion product (n = 29, 82.9%). The study revealed a 34% complication rate (n = 12). The most common complications were allergic reactions (14.3%), inhibitor development (20%), and iron overload (11.4%). Thrombotic events were less frequent (5.7%), while one case of hepatitis B (2.9%) was noted, which was attributed to older plasma-derived factor products. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation between severe hemophilia and inhibitor development (71% of severe cases developed inhibitors, p < 0.05). No significant association was observed between transfusion product type and the occurrence of complications. The study highlights the need for careful monitoring and management of hemophilic patients receiving transfusions. Strategies to minimize risks, such as the use of recombinant clotting factors, individualized transfusion protocols, and regular screening for inhibitors, are critical in improving patient outcomes and reducing complications.