Adverse effects of transfusions.

The risks of morbidity and mortality associated with transfusion are so great that no transfusion should be given until it is decided that it is absolutely necessary and then only with the utmost care. The unfavorable effects of transfusion reviewed are: hemolytic reaction; bacterial contamination; febrile reaction due to leukoagglutinins; urticaria; anaphylaxis; problems associated with the transfusion of excess potassium, ammonia, and acid; transmission of hepatitis, cytomegalic inclusion disease, toxoplasmosis, and malaria; pulmonary insufficiency; air embolism; and circulatory overload.