The Open Hematology Journal

2011, 5 : 10-13
Published online 2011 March 02. DOI: 10.2174/1874276901105010010
Publisher ID: TOHJ-5-10

Cost and Indications of Blood Transfusions in Pediatric Oncology in an African Hospital

John Recardie Murray and D. Cristina Stefan
PO Box 19063, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7550 South Africa.

ABSTRACT

Background:

Red blood cells and platelet concentrates are frequently used in paediatric oncology. There is little literature on the indications and costs of this adjuvant therapy.

Aim:

To retrospectively evaluate the indications, amounts and costs of transfusing blood products in 2008 in the Department of Paediatric Oncology at Tygerberg Children'the considerable costs.