transfusiereactie

Transfusiereactie refers to an adverse event occurring during or after a blood transfusion. These reactions can range from mild to life-threatening and are classified based on their cause and timing. Common causes include immunological responses to transfused blood components, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, or plasma. Non-immunological causes can include bacterial contamination of the transfused product, volume overload, or electrolyte imbalances.

Immediate reactions typically occur within minutes to 24 hours of starting the transfusion. These can include fever, chills, hives, itching, shortness of breath, or a drop in blood pressure. More severe immediate reactions, such as acute hemolytic transfusion reactions, are rare but serious and often caused by ABO incompatibility. Delayed reactions can occur days to weeks after the transfusion and may present as jaundice, anemia, or a decrease in platelet count. Graft-versus-host disease is a very rare but potentially fatal delayed reaction where donor lymphocytes attack the recipient's tissues.

Diagnosis of a transfusion reaction involves a thorough clinical assessment, review of the transfusion record, and laboratory tests, including a post-transfusion blood count and antibody screen. Management depends on the type and severity of the reaction and typically involves stopping the transfusion, supportive care, and administration of appropriate medications. Prevention strategies include careful patient identification, cross-matching of blood products, and appropriate donor screening.