What should be done if an allergic reaction occurs during blood transfusion?

Feb 10, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Tian Hongbo

Introduction

1. For patients with a history of transfusion-related allergic reactions, plasma transfusion should be avoided whenever possible; instead, washed red blood cells may be administered. In patients with known allergic constitutions, antihistamines should be given 30 minutes prior to transfusion. 2. For patients presenting with urticaria, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine or cyproheptadine may be administered. 3. For patients presenting with bronchial asthma, subcutaneous injection of epinephrine (1:1000 dilution) at a dose of 0.3–0.5 mL is recommended.

　　Blood transfusion is a therapeutic procedure involving the intravenous administration of blood to patients and is widely used in clinical practice. So, what should be done if an allergic reaction occurs during transfusion? The following section addresses this question.

　　Management of Allergic Reactions During Blood Transfusion

　　Allergic reactions during blood transfusion commonly manifest as pruritus or urticaria. Mild cases may present with facial flushing or widespread rash; severe cases may involve angioedema, laryngospasm, bronchial asthma, or even anaphylactic shock. Key preventive and management measures include:

　　First, for patients with a history of transfusion-related allergy, plasma transfusion should be avoided whenever possible; instead, washed red blood cells may be administered. For patients with known allergic constitutions, antihistamines should be given 30 minutes prior to transfusion.

　　Second, for patients presenting with urticaria, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine or cyproheptadine may be administered.

　　Third, for patients exhibiting bronchial asthma, subcutaneous injection of epinephrine (1:1000 dilution), 0.3–0.5 mL, is recommended. In severe cases or when symptoms persist, intravenous infusion of dexamethasone (5 mg) may be required.

　　Fourth, for patients experiencing anaphylactic shock, subcutaneous injection of epinephrine (1:1000) and intramuscular administration of antihistamines are indicated.

　　Knowledge Extension: Precautions During Blood Transfusion

　　1. Prior to administering blood products, the “three checks and nine verifications” must be performed to ensure accuracy and safety of transfusion.

　　2. Cardiac function should be assessed before transfusion. If cardiac function is normal, standard transfusion rates are appropriate. However, for patients with compromised cardiac function, transfusion rate must be reduced to prevent exacerbation or precipitation of heart failure.

　　3. For patients with suboptimal cardiac function, diuretics may be appropriately administered after transfusion—especially following red blood cell transfusion—to mitigate volume overload.

　　4. Close monitoring of the patient’s clinical status is essential both during and after transfusion, with particular attention to signs of adverse transfusion reactions—including fever, chills, rigors, and rash—and prompt symptomatic management when necessary.

　　The above outlines the management of allergic reactions occurring during blood transfusion. We hope this information is helpful to you.

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How many days should loratadine be taken for treating skin allergies?

Common dosage forms of loratadine include tablets and syrup. For treating skin allergies, loratadine is typically administered for 3–5 days; however, the exact duration should be determined based on the patient’s clinical condition and must follow a physician’s instructions. If drowsiness, dry mouth, or other adverse effects occur after taking the medication, patients should reduce physical activity and avoid driving or operating precision instruments. If allergic symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought promptly.