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Transfusion reaction

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Blood transfusion reaction

Treatment:

Treatment can prevent or treat the severe effects of transfusion reaction. If symptoms occur during the transfusion, the transfusion is stopped. Blood samples from the person getting the transfusion (and from the donor blood) may be tested to tell whether symptoms are caused by transfusion reaction.

Mild symptoms may be treated based on the symptom. Drugs called antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine) treat the allergic reaction and may reduce itching and rash. The pain reliever, acetaminophen, can reduce fever and discomfort. Drugs called corticosteroids (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) reduce the immune response. Fluids given through a vein ( intravenous ) and other medications may be used to treat/prevent kidney failure and shock.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome depends on how severe the reaction is. The disorder may disappear without problems. Or, it may be severe and life threatening.

Complications:

• Discomfort
• Anemia
• Acute kidney failure
• Shock
• Lung dysfunction

Calling your health care provider:

Tell your health care provider if you are having a blood transfusion and you have had a reaction before.

References:

Hoffman R, Benz E, Shattil S, Furie B, Cohen H. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice . 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingstone, 2004.

McPherson RA, Pincus MR. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 21st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders, 2006.

Despotis GJ, Zhang L, Lublin DM. Transfusion risks and transfusion-related pro-inflammatory responses. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am . February 2007;21:147-161.

• Review Date: 3/13/2007
• Reviewed By: Mark Levin, M.D., Hematologist and Oncologist, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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