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.