Adverse reactions to human plasma proteins.

Adverse reactions to human plasma proteins range from mild urticaria to fatal anaphylaxis and may occur with virtually any blood product. The most common clinical settings appear to be whole blood transfusion in subjects with no previous history of reactions, or the infusion of fresh frozen plasma or injection of human immune serum globulin (HISG) to patients with known immunodeficiency. The immunological processes involved and the management of reactions are discussed.