Vasovagal Reaction and Ischemic Colitis Following Blood Donation

Vasovagal reactions are the most common type of adverse reaction after blood donation; however, there are no reports of ischemic colitis as an adverse reaction after blood donation. A previously healthy 55-year-old woman suffered loss of consciousness at the end of her first plasma donation. She was diagnosed with a vasovagal reaction and received hydration. However, she developed persistent left flank pain and watery diarrhea, followed by bloody diarrhea. Abdominal computed tomography confirmed ischemic colitis. She was asked to fast and was eventually discharged 7 days later. We should consider the possibility of ischemic colitis if patients develop persistent abdominal pain after transient hypotension, such as that observed during a vasovagal reaction.