Immunologic Effects of Blood Transfusion

This text presents a critical review of published studies linking transfusion to clinical phenomena attributable to immune suppression. It begins with an historical account of the role of transfusion in solid organ transplantation. Clinical studies associating transfusion with increased risk of infection are supported by a thorough review of experimental studies. The influence of transfusion on recurrence rates following surgery for malignancies is analyzed in depth (with supporting experimental studies), clinical evidence that transfusion influences the recurrence rate of Crohn's disease or prevents spontaneous abortion is examined, and experimental evidence that transfusion impairs wound healing and delays the development of diabetes mellitus is reviewed.