What is the most common symptom of an allergic transfusion reaction?

Prepare for the AAB Medical Technologist (MT) Generalist Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to boost your understanding. Get exam-ready now!

The most common symptom of an allergic transfusion reaction is itching or rash. This type of reaction is typically a result of the recipient's immune system responding to proteins or allergens present in the donor blood. When these allergens enter the recipient's bloodstream, they trigger histamine release, leading to symptoms such as itching and rash, particularly on the skin. These symptoms can generally occur soon after the transfusion begins.

Fever, while it can accompany transfusion reactions, is more commonly associated with febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reactions, which are distinct from allergic reactions. Chest pain is often associated with more severe transfusion reactions, such as transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) or hemolytic reactions, but it is not a primary symptom of allergic reactions. Hypotension may occur in serious transfusion reactions, but it is mostly indicative of hemolysis or anaphylaxis rather than a straightforward allergic response. Thus, itching or rash stands out as the hallmark sign of an allergic transfusion reaction.

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