Online reporting system for transfusion-related adverse events to enhance recipient haemovigilance in Japan: A pilot study

Abstract Background A surveillance system for transfusion-related adverse reactions and infectious diseases in Japan was started at a national level in 1993, but current reporting of events in recipients is performed on a voluntary basis. A reporting system which can collect information on all transfusion-related events in recipients is required in Japan. Methods We have developed an online reporting system for transfusion-related events and performed a pilot study in 12 hospitals from 2007 to 2010. Results The overall incidence of adverse events per transfusion bag was 1.47%. Platelet concentrates gave rise to statistically more adverse events (4.16%) than red blood cells (0.66%) and fresh-frozen plasma (0.93%). In addition, we found that the incidence of adverse events varied between hospitals according to their size and patient characteristics. Conclusion This online reporting system is useful for collection and analysis of actual adverse events in recipients of blood transfusions and may contribute to enhancement of the existing surveillance system for recipients in Japan.