Transfusion
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Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging arthropod-borne flavivirus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Recent commentaries regarding ZIKV routes of transmission describe a potential transmission by transfusion. Herein, we report a probable case of transfusion-transmitted ZIKV infection through a platelet transfusion that was detected from postdonation information. ⋯ This is a case of probable transmission of ZIKV through blood transfusion. The patient had been transfused with the blood product from an infected donor, most likely in the incubation period after ZIKV infection but prior to clinical disease onset. This report emphasizes the importance of postdonation information and recipient investigations during outbreaks of potentially blood-borne infections.
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The acute treatment of severe warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) is focused on maximizing the oxygen delivery capacity of the patient's circulation and reversal of the underlying autoimmune process. The most effective means of preventing ischemic injury acutely is replacement of red blood cells (RBCs) via allogeneic RBC transfusion. However, in cases where this is not an option, other strategies must be considered including the use of hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs). ⋯ Early recognition of the need and ready familiarity with its properties on the part of the physician are critical to the utilization of HBOC-201 in a safe and timely fashion.