Febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reaction Save

Febrile Nonhemolytic Transfusion Reaction: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reaction (FNHTR) is a common adverse reaction that can occur during or after a blood transfusion. It is characterized by the sudden onset of fever, chills, and rigors, without evidence of red blood cell destruction. Although FNHTR is generally not life-threatening, it can cause discomfort and anxiety for patients.

Causes:

1. Leukocyte Antibodies: FNHTR is often attributed to the presence of leukocyte antibodies in the donor's blood. These antibodies can activate the recipient's immune system, leading to an inflammatory response and subsequent fever.
2. Donor Factors: Certain donor-related factors, such as a high number of leukocytes in the blood product or the storage duration of the blood, can increase the chances of an FNHTR.
3. Patient Factors: Patients with a history of previous transfusion reactions, females who have been pregnant, and those who have undergone multiple transfusions are more susceptible to FNHTR.

Symptoms:

The most common symptom of an FNHTR is fever, usually occurring within the first few hours after the transfusion. The fever may be accompanied by chills, rigors (involuntary muscle contractions), and occasionally, headache or nausea. It is important to note that FNHTR does not involve hemolysis, which is the destruction of red blood cells.

Prevention:

1. Leukoreduction: One of the most effective ways to prevent FNHTR is to perform leukoreduction, a process that removes white blood cells from the blood product before transfusion. This reduces the amount of leukocyte antibodies available to trigger an immune response.
2. Matching Blood Products: Ensuring compatibility between the recipient and donor blood types significantly reduces the risk of FNHTR.
3. Pretransfusion Medications: In some cases, pretransfusion medications, such as antipyretics or antihistamines, may be administered to high-risk patients to prevent or minimize the occurrence of FNHTR.

In conclusion, febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reaction is a relatively common adverse reaction to blood transfusions. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of its causes, symptoms, and prevention methods in order to provide safe and effective transfusion care to patients.