Hypothermia due to Massive Transfusion

Red blood cells are stored at 2 - 6 °C. Blood does not require warming for most routine transfusions. However, rapid, massive transfusion may result in clinically significant hypothermia (body temperature <35 °C.), particularly in paediatric patients. In addition, cardiac arrhythmias are reported to be increased in anaesthetized patients receiving massive transfusions of cold blood.

The incidence of transfusion-induced hypothermia associated with massive transfusion is unknown.

Further Reading