Transfusion-associated respiratory distress in Taiwan

Transfusion-associated respiratory distress occurred more often in the past in Taiwan but recently only very rarely. From the results of our studies it would appear that the former cases did not represent immune reactions involving red blood cells, serum proteins (especially IgA), HLA or granulocyte-specific antigens. Other causes, such as improper handling of the blood units may have been involved, but further study is also needed to investigate the possibility of the role of cytokine release from leukocytes or other factors. In addition, it appears that both plasma and serum obtained by recalcification of plasma may cause false-positive reactions in the granulocyte microagglutination test.