Febrile Reactions

These reactions occur when recipients have antibodies which react with donor white cells or when cytokines are present in the unit. Antibodies to white cells occur with previous exposure to cellular blood components during transfusion or pregnancy.  Patients will often develop a rise in temperature, chills, or rigors during or up to a few hours after the transfusion.  Patients may also have anxiety or mild dyspnea. Infants may exhibit apnea and/or bradycardia.

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