Reporting an abrupt-onset persistent hypotensive transfusion reaction in an Indian female patient

Blood transfusion [BT] may sometimes result in a rare type of adverse event causing an isolated fall in blood pressure, commonly referred to as a hypotensive transfusion reaction [HyTR]. It is mediated by the biological response mediators, in particular cytokines such as bradykinin characterized by a sudden and unforeseen onset of hypotension as the predominant clinical manifestation during BT. In this case, the authors wish to highlight two consecutive episodes of abrupt-onset HyTR following blood administration in an Indian female patient, which, however, characteristically subsided on stopping the BT. She received appropriate management for the same. In fact, on discharge, we advised the patient to receive washed blood components, if needed, to prevent the recurrence of HyTR in future.