Transfusion Associated Hematological Modulation in Beta Thalassemia Major: A Comparative Clinical Evaluation

Abstract

Beta thalassemia major is a severe inherited condition of blood, where the production of the hemoglobin can no longer take place correctly, resulting in the incurable persistent anemia and the need of regular transfusions with blood. The purpose of the study was to compare transfusion associated hematological parameters in pediatric patients beta thalassemia major through a comparative analysis of before and after blood transfusion. A prospective observational paired study was conducted in Sundus Foundation Thalassemia Centre in Lahore and was conducted over a four-month period. They involved 121 beta thalassemia major patients in the ages of 3-12 years who were selected through repeating sampling techniques. The blood samples were taken, one hour before transfusion and 24 hours after transfusion. Complete blood count, Hemoglobin (Hb), Red blood cell count, MCV, and MCH factors were analyzed using automated hematology analyzer. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, and a paired samples t-test was used to determine statistical significance. The current research has indicated that, following transfusion, all the hematologic parameters have greatly improved. Mean hemoglobin increased from 7.3 ± 0.9 g/dL to 10.6 ± 0.9 g/dL following transfusion. The red blood cell (RBC) counts also showed a significant improvement, rising from 3.08 ± 0.40 to 3.92 ± 0.42. Red cell indices, including MCV and MCH, improved significantly (p < 0.05). These findings indicate effective correction of anemia and partial improvement in RBC morphology after transfusion. Blood transfusion therapy is essential and life saving in the management of patients with major β-thalassemia. Overall, the results suggest that transfusion is an effective intervention for improving key hematological parameters and enhancing physiological stability.