A multigravida woman develops a rise in temperature by 1 degree Celsius one hour after receiving packed red cells, with rigors but no haemoglobinuria, no hypotension, and a stable haemoglobin increment. What is the most effective measure to prevent recurrence?

• A Pre-medication with corticosteroids
• B Leucodepletion of transfused units ✓
• C Use of washed red cells
• D Slowing the transfusion rate alone

Explanation

Febrile non-haemolytic transfusion reactions arise from recipient antibodies against donor leucocytes and from cytokines accumulated in stored blood. Pre-storage leucodepletion removes donor white cells and prevents most such reactions. Antipyretics treat the episode but do not reliably prevent recurrence. Washed cells are reserved for patients with severe recurrent allergic reactions, and corticosteroids are not standard premedication.

Reference: Williams Hematology, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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