Doris Neurath

Hemolytic transfusion reactions after administration of intravenous immune (gamma) globulin : a case series analysis

BACKGROUND: This case series summarizes our observations of hemolytic reactions after the administration of large amounts of intravenous immune (gamma) globulin (IVIG).

Evaluation of platelet transfusion triggers in a tertiary-care hospital

BACKGROUND: Our 1100‐bed referral hospital uses approximately 12,000 units of random‐donor platelets (PLTs) and 1,900 units of single‐donor apheresis PLTs per year with a mean of 23 percent outdating. An analysis of patterns of utilization has been undertaken to evaluate practice.

The use of a bacteria detection system to evaluate bacterial contamination in PLT concentrates

BACKGROUND: Random‐donor PLTs (RDPs) are functional at 7 days. Nevertheless, since the mid‐1980s, concern for bacterial contamination has caused the storage period to be reduced to 5 days. The ability of a bacteria detection system (BDS, Pall) to determine bacterial contamination and permit extension of the PLT shelf life to 7 days was assessed.

Seven‐day storage of random donor PLT concentrates

BACKGROUND:  PLT concentrates are licensed for use up to a maximum of 5 days of storage. Increasing storage to 7 days would improve the logistics of supply and have the potential to reduce wastage.

The contribution of platelets in the production of cryoprecipitates for use in a fibrin glue

Background and Objectives  Cryoprecipitate has a wide application for use as a fibrin glue. In some situations, platelets are added to the preparation in order to enhance the fibrin glue.

Documenting a transfusion: how well is it done?

BACKGROUND: Current practice in transfusion medicine promotes clear documentation of transfusion‐related events including the fact that the patient has been informed of the related risks and benefits.

Impact of platelet transfusion on toxicity and mortality after hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation

Thrombocytopenia occurs commonly after hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation (HPCT) and is associated with potential morbidity and mortality. Few studies have examined the impact of platelet (PLT) transfusion on clinical outcomes in HPCT while optimal PLT transfusion strategies after HSCT remain uncertain.

The effect of patient‐controlled analgesia on coadministered red blood cells

BACKGROUND:  Patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) provides effective pain control. The possibility of administrating opioids in the same line as red blood cells (RBCs) for patients with poor venous access has been entertained. The literature on this approach is not extensive, but generally cautionary.

Acute extravascular hemolytic transfusion reaction due to anti-Kpa antibody missed by electronic crossmatch.

BACKGROUND Kpa antigen is a low incidence red blood cell antigen within the Kell system. Anti-Kpa alloantibody may be associated with acute and delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions. CASE STUDY We report a case of a clinically significant acute extravascular hemolytic transfusion reaction mediated by previously unrecognized (and undetected) anti-Kpa alloantibody. This reaction occurred in a patient who met all criteria for electronic crossmatch, resulting in the transfusion of an incompatible red cell unit. RESULTS Post-transfusion investigation showed the transfused red cell unit was crossmatch compatible at the immediate spin phase but was 3 + incompatible at the antiglobulin phase. No evidence of intravascular hemolysis was observed upon visual comparison of the pre- and post-transfusion peripheral blood plasma. Further testing showed the presence of anti-Kpa antibody. The clinical course of the patient included acute febrile and systemic reaction. CONCLUSION Acute extravascular hemolytic transfusion reaction may occur due to undetected anti-Kpa alloantibody. Various strategies for crossmatching are discussed in the context of antibodies to low incidence antigens.

Current perceptions of Canadian autologous blood donors

Background and Objectives  We determined the perceptions and motivations of autologous donors to establish their regard for this process and the new blood system established in 1999 in Canada.