[Current focus: blood transfusion. Risks and problems in blood transfusion]

Blood transfusion became the subject of major interest because of a possible HIV-infection. It should not been forgotten, however, that HIV-infection is not the only of a wide variety of risks. The leading complication is still the hemolytic transfusion reaction, followed by transmission of hepatitis or other viral or bacterial germs. Less striking side effects, like an immunomodulation or a graft-versus-host reaction, should also been included into the therapeutical considerations. One possibility to avoid risks, is the use of autologous blood. The most important requirement, however, remains to operate with a minimal blood loss.