In this article, we will discuss various Complications of Blood Transfusion. So, let’s get started
Complications
Immunological
1. Alloimmunisation
2. Incompatibility
2a. Red cells
- Immediate hemolytic and serological transfusion reactions
- Delayed hemolytic and serological transfusion reactions
2b. Leucocytes and platelets
- Nonhemolytic (febrile) transfusion reactions
- Post-transfusion purpura
- Poor survival of transfused platelets and granulocytes
- Graft vs host disease
- Transfusion related acute lung injury
2c. Plasma proteins- allergic reactions
- Urticaria and anaphylactic reactions
Nonimmunological
1. Transmission of infection
- Transmission of infection, e.g. hepatitis (B, C, D), HIV, other viruses (CMV, EBY, HTLV-1, Parvovirus B-19)
- Parasites, e.g. malaria, trypanosomiasis, toxoplasmosis
- Transfusion of blood contaminated with bacteria
2. Volume overload (hypervolemia)
3. Iron overload due to multiple transfusions
4. Bleeding and electrolyte changes: Massive transfusion of stored blood may cause bleeding and electrolyte changes
5. Thrombophlebitis
6. Air embolism
7. Hypotensive reactions in patients receiving ACE inhibitors