Adverse reactions to plasma volume expanders.

Plasma volume expanders are effective in the restoration of blood volume. All the available plasma volume expanders may rarely induce anaphylactoid reactions, although such reactions are extremely uncommon in shocked patients. The reactions are caused by different mechanisms depending on the solution, and there is little evidence that IgE antibodies are involved. In addition to these reactions, effects on haemostasis and renal function may occur, and the persistence of hydroxyethyl starch in the body has led to concern about its potential role as a carcinogen, although there is no evidence to suggest that this has occurred.