Blood Transfusion Reactions During Pregnancy

Background: To determine the frequency and types of blood transfusion reactions during pregnancy. Methods: In this descriptive study 1754 consecutive pregnant women during a period of twelve months, were included. All reactions were reported to the blood bank. Frequency of blood transfusion reactions, type of transfusion reactions, morbidity, complication or mortality was noted. Results: Out of total cases of anaemia (1754), the patients having blood transfusions were 26.6% (n=468). Out of 468 post transfusion reactions were observed in 20.9%. Transfusion reactions were categorized as hemolytic reactions in 4.9% , nonhemolytic reactions in 4.2% and febrile reactions in 11.7%. Out of 98 cases of blood transfusion reactions two cases expired due to severe hemolytic reaction . Conclusion: Blood transfusion for the treatment of anaemia should be reserved only for hemodynamically unstable patients or any other co morbidity during pregnancy.