Blood Transfusion

Posted by Geo on June 06, 1999 at 00:57:55
Hello
I tranfused April 6th in an emergency situation. Given 3 pints fresh frozen, and 1 pint whole blood. I had an elevated liver panel at the time of my surgery which soon went back to normal after I was out of CFH, congestive heart failure. I am 30 years old and had a percardial effusion after valve replacement. My main question is if I were to contract hepatits how soon would I show an elevated livel panel. I was tested last week and it is negative. Thank you.

Posted by HFHSM.D.-D.M. on June 11, 1999 at 16:54:07
Dear Geo:
I appreciate your question though it is somewhat more complicated than what you might appreciate.  Before I say anymore, I would stress in this day and age, it would be unusual for anyone to contract either hepatitis B or C from a blood transfusion in the US because we do a pretty effective job in screening for it.
The timing of liver enzyme elevations with transfusion associated hepatitis depends upon whether one is exposed to hepatitis B or C.  With hepatitis C, the liver enzymes can bump up within a few weeks up to eight weeks.  With hepatitis B, the incubation period can be longer and it is potentially possible to develop a bump in liver enzymes anywhere from four to 24 weeks.  
Again, I am not sure you really have anything to worry about any of this.  I hope this information is helpful to you.  If you have any additional questions or concerns, please let me know.  You can post them through MEDHELP.   The direct number to our Liver Clinic at Henry Ford is: [phone].
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question physician when you have a question pertaining to your health