What does AHTR mean in UNCLASSIFIED
Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions (AHTR) are a serious and potentially fatal complication of blood transfusions. They occur when the recipient's immune system attacks the transfused red blood cells, causing them to break down (hemolyze).
AHTR meaning in Unclassified in Miscellaneous
AHTR mostly used in an acronym Unclassified in Category Miscellaneous that means Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions
Shorthand: AHTR,
Full Form: Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions
For more information of "Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions", see the section below.
Causes
AHTRs can be caused by:
- ABO incompatibility: The most common cause of AHTRs, occurring when the donor's blood type does not match the recipient's.
- Rh incompatibility: Occurs when the donor has Rh-positive blood and the recipient is Rh-negative.
- Minor blood group incompatibilities: Involve less common blood group antigens.
- Antibodies to transfused platelets: In rare cases, AHTRs can occur when the recipient has antibodies against transfused platelets.
Symptoms
Symptoms of AHTRs can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Shock
Diagnosis
AHTRs are diagnosed through a combination of the patient's symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory tests. These tests may include:
- Blood type and antibody testing: To determine if there is an incompatibility between the donor and recipient's blood.
- Blood culture: To rule out infection.
- Urinalysis: To detect hemoglobin in the urine, a sign of hemolysis.
Treatment
The primary treatment for AHTRs is to stop the transfusion immediately. Other treatments may include:
- Intravenous fluids: To maintain blood pressure and prevent shock.
- Oxygen therapy: To support breathing.
- Blood transfusion: In severe cases, a compatible blood transfusion may be necessary.
- Corticosteroids: To suppress the immune response.
Prevention
AHTRs can be prevented by:
- Careful blood typing and crossmatching: To ensure compatibility between the donor and recipient's blood.
- Using pre-transfusion medications: To reduce the risk of an immune reaction.
- Monitoring patients closely during transfusions: For early detection of symptoms.
Conclusion
AHTRs are a serious complication of blood transfusions that can be fatal if not treated promptly. By following proper transfusion protocols and monitoring patients closely, the risk of AHTRs can be minimized.