Introduction

A blood transfusion is the transfer of blood or a blood component from one person (a donor) to another (a recipient).

In the United States, about 27 million blood transfusions are performed every year. Transfusions are given to increase the blood's ability to carry oxygen, restore the body's blood volume, improve immunity, and correct clotting problems. Accident victims, people undergoing surgery, and people receiving treatment for cancers (such as leukemia) or other diseases (such as the blood diseases sickle cell anemia and thalassemia) are typical recipients.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strictly regulates the collection, storage, and transportation of blood and its components. These regulations were developed to protect both the donor and the recipient. Additional standards are upheld by many state and local health authorities, as well as by organizations such as the American Red Cross and the American Association of Blood Banks. Because of these regulations, giving and receiving blood has become very safe. However, transfusions still pose risks for the recipient, such as allergic reactions, fever and chills, blood volume overload, and bacterial and viral infections. Even though the chance of contracting AIDS or hepatitis from transfusions is remote, doctors are well aware of these risks and order transfusions only when there seems to be no alternative.