Treatment:

Therapy can prevent or treat the severe effects of a hemolytic transfusion reaction. If symptoms occur during the transfusion, the transfusion must be stopped immediately. Blood samples from the person getting the transfusion and from the donor may be tested to tell whether symptoms are being caused by a transfusion reaction.

Mild symptoms may be treated with the following:

• The pain reliever, acetaminophen can reduce fever and discomfort.
• Fluids given through a vein (intravenous) and other medications may be used to treat or prevent kidney failure and shock.

Expectations (prognosis):

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

Complications:

• Acute kidney failure
• Anemia
• Lung problems
• Shock

Calling your health care provider:

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