French Haemovigilance Data on Platelet Transfusion

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Hematology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• The French Health Products Safety Agency (Afssaps) manages the national hemovigilance network.
• Adverse transfusion reaction data is collected regardless of severity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and tolerance of pooled platelet concentrates (PP) versus apheresis platelet concentrates (APC).
• To compare transfusion incident rates between PP and APC.

Main Methods:

• Screening of the French national hemovigilance database from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2006.
• Statistical analysis using the chi-square test to compare incident rates.

Main Results:

• Apheresis platelet concentrates (APC) had more than double the transfusion incident reports compared to pooled platelet concentrates (PP) (8.61 vs. 4.21 per 1,000 LBP).
• The difference in incident rates was statistically significant (chi-square test, p < 0.05).
• Allergic reactions were the most common adverse event associated with APC, occurring at a rate of 1 in 200 APC units issued, though rarely serious.

Conclusions:

• Apheresis platelet concentrates (APC) are associated with a higher risk of adverse transfusion reactions than pooled platelet concentrates (PP).
• Further evaluation is recommended, particularly concerning the impact of additive solutions used since 2005, to develop preventive strategies.