3. Physiology
        3.6. Haematology
            3.6.2. Transfusion medicine
3.6.2.2. Complications of blood transfusion

Complications of blood transfusion

[Ref: PK1:p255]

Background

Immunological reactions

Immediate or delayed

Immediate reactions

Massive intravascular haemolysis
* Due to IgM or IgG antibodies activating complement system
* e.g. ABO antibodies

Severity depends on the recipient's titre of antibodies

Reactions associated with coating of RBC with IgG
--> Extravascular haemolysis
--> Less severe
* e.g. Rh antibodies

Severe haemolytic transfusion reactions include

RBC destruction can lead to:

Delayed reactions

If recipient develops antibodies to antigens present on donor RBC during or after transfusion
--> Secondary response with rapid rise of IgG antibodies
* More frequently with antigens of Kidd (Jk), Duffy (Fy), Rhesus (Rh), Kell (K), and S blood group systems

Non-immunological reactions

Septicaemia

Approximately 3 in 1000 units of blood may be contaminated with bacteria
* e.g. pseudomonas

Risk is higher with platelet
* Due to its storage at higher temperatures

May have signs of Gram-negative endotoxaemia

Blood-borne disease

Other complications



Table of contents  | Bibliography  | Index