Sex chromatin analysis of lymphocytes invading host organs in transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease

Transfusion-Associated Graft Versus Host Disease in the Immunocompetent Patient

Transfusion associated-graft versus host disease (TA-GVHD) is a rare complication of blood transfusion. It carries a very high mortality rate. Although the phenomenon has been well described in immunocompromised patients, this review focuses on the immunocompetent host. Cases of TA-GVHD continue to be reported following a variety of surgical procedures, especially cardiac procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. Additional risk factors for TA-GVHD include blood component transfusion in populations with limited genetic diversity, the use of directed donations from family members, and the transfusion of fresh blood. As there is no effective treatment, the focus is on prevention.

Transfusion-associated acute graft-versus-host disease in a heart transplant recipient

We report a heart transplant recipient who developed graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) following blood transfusion. We consider that heart transplant recipients should be included in the category of immunosuppressed patients who may develop this disease after being treated with blood products. We also consider that, at the present time, irradiation of blood products is the only useful method of avoiding development of GVHD in these patients.