Transfusion reaction - hemolytic

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Surface proteins causing rejection

Blood transfusion reaction

Therapy can prevent or treat the severe effects of a hemolytic transfusion reaction. If symptoms occur during the transfusion, the transfusion is 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:

• Antihistamine drugs (such as diphenhydramine) can treat itching and rash.
• The pain reliever, acetaminophen can reduce fever and discomfort.
• Corticosteroids (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) can reduce the immune response.
• Fluids given through a vein (intravenous) and other medications may be used to treat or prevent kidney failure and shock.

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

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

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

Review Date: 12/13/2010
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital (3/2/2009).

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