reaction to platelets

[sdrake]

Dad had a platelet transfusion last evening. While he was getting the first bag, he noticed his hands were itching. His lips and face started swelling, and his throat felt like it was closing. Needless to say it was a pretty uncomfortable experience. Everything turned out OK. My question is; what does this mean for any future transfusions?

Shari

[eve]

it means he should be premedicated before any future transfusions

tylenol, benedryl or whatever his doctor orders

eve

[jga_socal]

Sounds like an allergic reaction. They always made me take the 2 meds eve mentioned. I never had the reaction you described.

[sdrake]

Thanks for your replies. I am certain that Dad was premedicated. He has had many rbc and platelet transfusions and never had any problem. I am hoping this was just a fluke and won’t happen again.

Shari

[marlene]

You may want to have them slow down the rate of the platelet transfusions. One time they ran John’s in at a faster rate giving him hives from head to toe. They stopped the transfusion, gave him a steroid (two doses) and waited for the reaction to calm down. Once it was under control, they started it up again a slower rate.

After that, they upped his dosage of premeds. He never reacted that severely again. But always ended up getting some hives from his platelet transfuions.

[sdrake]

Thanks for information Marlene. You are right on target. Yesterday they gave Dad another platelet transfusion (they had stopped the other one when he reacted). They gave the platelets at a much slower rate and gave him extra Benedryl. Thankfully he got along without any problems. We all kind of held our breath though!

Thanks again,
Shari

[marlene]

That’s good to hear…..Marlene

[Author]

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