Clinical Presentation in Transfusion Complications

The onset of signs and symptoms of transfusion complications are similar for several types of reactions and must be assessed quickly to identify the most serious reactions and to begin treatment immediately. Additional investigation can then be done to eliminate other causes and to determine if preventative steps are required for future transfusions.

View a PowerPoint presentation of clinical symptoms associated with acute transfusion reactions and the immediate actions to take.

Signs and Symptoms

Below are signs and symptoms (listed alphabetically) with links to various transfusion complications in the differential diagnoses. The list is not exhaustive and includes but is not limited to the most common signs and symptoms and those associated with the most severe reactions. The reader is directed to specific complications for a more extensive description of signs and symptoms. Differential diagnosis will also include acute events unrelated to transfusion.

Many signs and symptoms are not separately itemized below, including anxiety, bleeding, headache, jaundice, malaise, muscle aches, cramps and pains, oliguria, nausea, tightness in chest, tachycardia, tachypnea, and vomiting. One or more of these may also be present.

Note: In the anesthetized patient typical signs may not be apparent and symptoms cannot be expressed. The only signs may be a drop in blood pressure, hemoglobinuria, or uncontrolled bleeding due to DIC.