What symptoms characterize a febrile transfusion reaction?

• A. Nausea and vomiting
• B. Chills and fever
• C. Rash
• D. No symptoms

Answer: (B)

Febrile transfusion reaction is identified by fever with chills occurring during or soon after a blood transfusion. The fever reflects cytokines released by stored donor leukocytes or antibodies in the recipient reacting to donor leukocytes. This combination of fever and chills is the hallmark, setting it apart from other transfusion reactions: allergic reactions typically present with rash or hives; anaphylactic reactions involve trouble breathing and hypotension; transfusion-associated circulatory overload presents with shortness of breath and edema. Nausea and vomiting can appear in various settings but do not define a febrile transfusion reaction.