Indications and Complications of Blood Transfusion

Adverse Reactions to Blood Transfusion

Blood transfusion is a critical medical procedure used to replace lost blood, manage severe anemia, and treat clotting disorders. While often life-saving, transfusions come with potential complications, including adverse reactions that can range from mild to severe.

Indications for Blood Transfusion

• Severe anemia (Hb <7 g/dL)
• Acute hemorrhage due to trauma or surgery
• Bone marrow failure (aplastic anemia, leukemia)
• Hemolytic diseases such as sickle cell anemia
• Severe clotting disorders requiring plasma transfusion

Common Adverse Reactions

1. Hemolytic Reaction

Occurs when incompatible blood types are transfused, leading to destruction of red blood cells and potential renal failure.

2. Febrile Non-Hemolytic Reaction

Due to recipient's immune response to white blood cells in transfused blood, causing fever and chills.

3. Allergic Reaction

Symptoms include itching, rash, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

4. Infection Transmission

Though rare, bacterial contamination or viruses such as HIV and hepatitis B/C can be transmitted.

5. Iron Overload

Multiple transfusions can lead to iron accumulation, causing damage to the liver and heart.

Prevention and Management

• Proper blood typing and crossmatching
• Leukoreduction to reduce febrile reactions
• Close monitoring during transfusion
• Iron chelation therapy for iron overload