Comprehensive Adverse Effects of Blood Transfusion Practice Test 2026 – Your All-in-One Guide to Exam Mastery!

Post-transfusion purpura is driven by antibodies against platelet antigens that rapidly destroy donor platelets, leading to severe thrombocytopenia and bleeding after a transfusion. The best treatment is high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to block the antibody-mediated destruction of platelets and modulate the immune response, together with supportive care for bleeding and other complications. Platelet transfusions are avoided when possible because the circulating antibodies will quickly attack the transfused platelets, making the problem worse rather than better. Corticosteroids may be added in some cases, but IVIG is the mainstay. In stubborn cases, plasmapheresis or rituximab can be considered, but they’re not first-line. Erythropoietin and iron target red cells, not the immune-mediated platelet destruction, and anticoagulation isn’t part of the standard approach for this condition.