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Mechanisms of red blood cell transfusion‐related immunomodulation
Author(s) -
Remy Kenneth E.,
Hall Mark W.,
Cholette Jill,
Juffermans Nicole P.,
Nicol Kathleen,
Doctor Allan,
Blumberg Neil,
Spinella Philip C.,
Norris Philip J.,
Dahmer Mary K.,
Muszynski Jennifer A.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
transfusion
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.045
H-Index - 132
eISSN - 1537-2995
pISSN - 0041-1132
DOI - 10.1111/trf.14488
Subject(s) - immune system , medicine , immunology , proinflammatory cytokine , blood product , red blood cell transfusion , red blood cell , intensive care medicine , blood transfusion , inflammation , adverse effect , surgery
Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is common in critically ill, postsurgical, and posttrauma patients in whom both systemic inflammation and immune suppression are associated with adverse outcomes. RBC products contain a multitude of immunomodulatory mediators that interact with and alter immune cell function. These interactions can lead to both proinflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Defining clinical outcomes related to immunomodulatory effects of RBCs in transfused patients remains a challenge, likely due to complex interactions between individual blood product characteristics and patient‐specific risk factors. Unpacking these complexities requires an in‐depth understanding of the mechanisms of immunomodulatory effects of RBC products. In this review, we outline and classify potential mediators of RBC transfusion‐related immunomodulation and provide suggestions for future research directions.