What's new in transfusion medicine?

The safety of the blood supply has increased tremendously in the past decade. Donor screening and improved infectious disease testing of units for transfusion have contributed to the decreased risk of transfusion-transmitted diseases. Reduction of the number of passenger leukocytes from RBC and platelet transfusions decreases the rate of febrile transfusion reactions and alloimmunization. Irradiation of cellular products helps prevent TA-GVHD. The practice of obtaining an informed consent prior to transfusion helps patients and families understand the risks and benefits of and alternatives to transfusion therapy.