Transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease

Abstract

Transfusion-associated graft versus host disease (TA-GVHD) is a fatal complication of transfusion of blood products that usually affects immunocompromised patients. Herein, we present our experience with a diabetic patient who had undergone cardiopulmonary bypass and developed TA-GVHD. The chronological order of events observed were fresh whole-blood transfusion from relatives, fever, rash, liver dysfunction, and pancytopenia. Skin biopsies demonstrated GVHD involvement. The patient died within 3weeks after the transfusions despite prompt treatment. GVHD must be considered in the differential diagnosis if a patient with a recent transfusion history admits with fever, skin rash, abnormal liver function tests, and pancytopenia.