Transfusion of blood and/or haemoderivatives
A transfusion of blood and/or haemoderivatives is used to replace blood components that are vital for the survival of patients: blood cells, platelets and plasma, which cannot be replaced by other alternatives.
When is a transfusion required?
This treatment is indicated in patients who present a lack of essential blood components at any given time.
Transfusions carry a set of risks and the decision to undergo a transfusion should only be taken by a doctor after looking at the patient’s condition and taking an analysis and assessment of the situation. In this case, patients must always sign an authorisation document called an “informed consent” form.
How is a transfusion of blood and/or haemoderivatives done?
Blood and its components are obtained from volunteers and altruistic donors. Before making a blood donation, donors must fill out a questionnaire about their state of health and, in addition, they must undergo a medical examination. All the blood components obtained are then analysed to make sure there are no diseases that can be transmitted through the blood.
Before making the transfusion, we must verify the blood derivative is compatible with the patient's blood. The physician in charge must assess the risk and benefits of treatment for the patient.
All the components are administered through a vein with a venous catheter.
Risks
Although blood transfusions are now very safe, some undesired side effects may occur:
- Mild reactions, such as fever or chills. These are easily treatable.
- Severe reactions, such as the destruction of red blood cells, haemolysis, severe allergic reactions and pulmonary oedema, with a significant risk for patients. These are uncommon.
The transmission of infectious diseases associated with blood is very unlikely nowadays. All donated blood is subject to prior analysis to find out about the blood group and prevent the transmission of infectious diseases such as syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, Chagas disease and infectious diseases
The transmission of infectious diseases associated with blood is very unlikely nowadays. All donated blood is subject to prior analysis to find out about the blood group and prevent the transmission of infectious diseases such as syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, Chagas disease and human T-lymphotrophic virus.