Key Types of Blood Transfusion Reactions

May 4, 2025

Blood Transfusion Reactions

Mnemonic Overview

  • Mnemonic for remembering transfusion reactions: "A fat nurse hemolyzed my labs."
  • Each part of the mnemonic stands for different types of transfusion reactions.

Types of Blood Transfusion Reactions

1. Allergic/Anaphylactic Transfusion Reaction

  • Mnemonic Component: A (in A Fat Nurse)
  • Type: Type 1 hypersensitivity reaction
  • Cause: Reaction due to plasma proteins in blood
  • Symptoms:
    • Itching (pruritus)
    • Urticaria
    • Severe cases: respiratory depression, septic shock
  • Risk Factor: Patients with IgA deficiency
  • Timing: Occurs within 2-3 hours

2. Febrile Non-Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction

  • Mnemonic Component: Fat Nurse (F for Febrile, N for Non-hemolytic)
  • Type: Type 2 hypersensitivity reaction
  • Cause: Host antibodies react against donor's white blood cells leading to cytokine accumulation
  • Symptoms:
    • Fever
    • Headache
    • Flushing
  • Key Factor: Absence of hemolysis differentiates it from other reactions

3. Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction

  • Mnemonic Component: H in Hemolyzed
  • Type: Type 2 hypersensitivity reaction with intravascular and/or extravascular hemolysis
  • Cause: Host antibodies react against donor's red blood cells
  • Symptoms:
    • Flank pain
    • Hemoglobinuria
    • Jaundice
  • Timing: Occurs within 1 hour

4. Lung Injury Transfusion Reaction (Acute Lung Injury)

  • Mnemonic Component: L in Labs
  • Cause: Donor anti-leukocyte antibodies attack the recipient's lung endothelial cells
  • Symptoms:
    • Respiratory collapse
    • Pulmonary edema
    • Potential for right-sided heart failure in severe cases
  • Timing: Occurs within 1-6 hours

Key Points to Remember

  • Each reaction is identified by specific symptoms and timing.
  • Mnemonic "A fat nurse hemolyzed my labs" helps to recall each reaction type.
  • Understanding the underlying immunological basis aids in identification and management of reactions.

Timing Importance

  • Knowing the timing helps in diagnosing the type of reaction but is less critical than recognizing symptoms and reaction types.

Final Tip

  • Keep the mnemonic in mind for quick recall during exams or practical situations involving blood transfusions.