[Nerve affection in connection with bloodletting I. A rare, but potentially serious complication]

Based on clinical experiences and a review of the literature we describe venepuncture of blood donors complicated by an affection of the peripheral nerves secondary to an arterial or venous lesion. Such complications are rare but potentially disabling and should be known in blood banks and clinical departments to which these patients are referred. Blood donors should be offered optimal and early diagnostics, which appear to be a prerequisite for treatment of donors complaining of pain of neuropathic character extending beyond the puncture site. Recognition of the complication opens options for prevention.