These antibodies react to transfusions containing IgA. Treatment is with epinephrine, fluids, corticosteroids and supportive measures. IgA deficiency occurs in 1 of 600-800 patients in the general population. Patients with known IgA deficiency should receive thoroughly washed packed red blood cells, deglycerolized frozen red cells or IgA free blood units. This is a rare but serious complication that is thought to be due to the transfusion of antileukocyte antibodies that interact with the patient's white blood cells causing them to aggregate in the pulmonary circulation. Subsequent damage to the alveolocapillary membrane triggers the syndrome.
Treatment involves respiratory support as needed.
Graft versus Host disease is seen exclusively in immunocompromised patients where cellular blood products containing lymphocytes are given. These lymphocytes can mount an immune response against the compromised recipient. Irradiation of transfusions can be utilized to inactivate the lymphocytes prior to transfusion. Post-transfusion purpura is common with the development of platelet antibodies. The external purpura signal a reaction that may lead to profound thrombocytopenia which usually occurs about one week post transfusion.