JLE

Hématologie

MENU

Hypersensitivity reactions to transfusion of blood components Volume 10, issue 5, Septembre-octobre 2004

Figures

See all figures

Authors
Unité d’exploration des allergies. Maladies respiratoires, Inserm U454 – IFR3 Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHU de Montpellier, 371, avenue du doyen Gaston Giraud, 34295 Montpellier cedex 5, Unité de sécurité transfusionnelle et d’hémovigilance, Hôpital St-Eloi, CHU de Montpellier, 80, avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295 Montpellier cedex 5

In the literature, hypersensitivity or allergic reactions can occur after transfusion of any kind of blood products. They are rare but potentially serious. The present review summarizes their epidemiology and clinical presentations. The pathophysiological mechanisms of these hypersensitivities include: anti-protein antibodies of red, white blood cells and platelets, ati-HLA, anti-IgA, anti-haptoglobin, anti-C2 and C4, anti-albumin, anti-fibrinogen, antibodies in the recipient, transfers of allergens or specific IgE, anti-HNA antibodies by the donors, then increase of histamine, bradykinines, C3a, C5a and cytokines in the blood component. But thorough studies still need to be carried out. Then, we develop the treatments and the diagnosis work up with possibly a consultation in allergology. We discuss the means of primary prevention (selection of the donors ?) and secondary (plasma removal, premedication) which can be set up in blood bank departments. The hypersensitivity reactions after transfusion of blood products still need further studies on the epidemiology and pathophysiology.