XII. Untoward Reactions to Blood Transfusion

Abstract

OVER 4,500,000 blood transfusions are given each year in the United States, and the use of blood and blood fractions is steadily increasing. Nevertheless, it is estimated that in 1 of 5000 recipients fatal complications develop from untoward reactions to blood transfusions. Since most of these catastrophes are preventable, the physician bears a special responsibility for using blood and blood products wisely and only when clearly indicated. Moreover, it is essential that he be aware of the nature of the complications to blood transfusion and the methods required to prevent and manage them.In general complications can be divided into . . .