[Transfusion-induced severe allergic reaction--report of one case]

Recently, improved cross-matching techniques have reduced the frequency of adverse reactions of blood transfusion less the 2%, but allergic reactions (non-hemolytic) occur in about 3% of patients receiving properly typed and crossmatched blood. Allergic reactions to blood or drugs administered during anesthesia represent an unpredictable and occasionally life-threatening event. When a severe allergic reaction develops, an aggressive and prompt treatment, including intravenous epinephrine, is necessary to minimize morbidity and mortality. We experienced a case of intraoperative shock due to blood transfusion. The case manifested with hypotension, tachycardia, cutaneous rash and bronchospasm during blood transfusion and then the aggressive treatment was given to resume normal vital signs. The rest of anesthesia and surgery as well as the recovery was uneventful and the patient was discharged on the 18th postoperative day.