Blood Transfusion Reaction

A blood transfusion reaction is a disorder in which the body's immune system refuses to accept the foreign blood cells being introduced into the body. The immunity response instinctively provides protection from objects that could harm the body. Substances known as antigens initiate the production of antibodies. Antibodies cling to certain antigens and help disable them. If you’ve received a blood transfusion that has caused a negative reaction in your body, you may be entitled to receive compensation regarding your claims. Blood that you receive in a transfusion must be compatible with your own blood. Being compatible means that your body will not form antibodies against the blood you receive. Although blood is usually carefully screened prior to being administered to the patient, negligence can still occur. Antibodies that combat the opposing antigen can be found in blood plasma, making it impossible for two different blood types to coexist. For example, someone with Type O blood cannot receive a transfusion from someone with Type A because the Type O antibodies fight the Type A antigen within the body. Therapy can prevent or treat the severe effects of a hemolytic transfusion reaction. If symptoms occur during the blood transfusion itself, the transfusion must be stopped immediately. Blood samples from the person getting the transfusion and from the donor may be tested to tell whether symptoms are being caused by a transfusion reaction. Although symptoms are typically mild, the outcome depends on the severity of the reaction. The symptoms may disappear without any problems, or they can become severe and even life threatening.

Common symptoms resulting from a blood transfusion reaction normally show up during or immediately after the procedure. In rare cases however, they may not be noticeable for days in what is called a delayed reaction. Some reactions you can expect to see in a victim include high fevers, rashes, discomfort, and blood in the urine. If the symptoms worsen you’ll find kidney failure, anemia, and shock can occur if not treated properly. If you or someone you know has experienced a blood transfusion reaction, contact a medical expert and legal counsel right away. It’s important for all medical related cases to be documented, and proven so that they hold up under intense scrutiny.

At Catania & Catania, our blood transfusion lawyers will work closely with victims who have experienced this type of medical error. We can assist with filing a medical malpractice claim on behalf of the victim, and will see that their case be pursued to the fullest extent of the law. We understand the pain and suffering involved with medical mishaps. This is why our lawyers seek full compensation regarding each client’s claims. For more information, call our Tampa law office at 1-800-253-5523 today.