What transfusion reaction causes coughing, bronchospasms, and urticaria?

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!

Anaphylactic transfusion reactions are characterized by a variety of symptoms, including respiratory distress such as coughing and bronchospasms, as well as skin manifestations like urticaria. These reactions occur due to an allergic response, often triggered by the recipient's immune system reacting to proteins present in the donor blood.

During an anaphylactic reaction, the immune system releases histamines and other chemicals that can cause inflammation, leading to respiratory symptoms like coughing and the constriction of airways (bronchospasm). Additionally, urticaria, which presents as hives or welts on the skin, is a common manifestation of allergic responses. This reaction can develop rapidly after the transfusion begins, often within minutes, making it critical for medical personnel to recognize and respond promptly to these symptoms to prevent severe complications.

Other types of transfusion reactions have different clinical presentations and are caused by distinct underlying mechanisms. For example, circulatory overload primarily presents with symptoms related to volume overload, febrile reactions are characterized by fever and chills without the respiratory symptoms seen in anaphylaxis, and hemolytic reactions typically involve symptoms related to the destruction of red blood cells, such as fever, chills, and back pain. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurate

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