Identification of thrombotic complications of the arm in blood donors: Evidence from literature and national data
Niubel Díaz Padilla, Armand Snel, Mardin Rashid, Ivan Bank, Johanna Wiersum‐OsseltonAbstract
Background and Objectives
Research on donor complications has focused mainly on vasovagal reactions, with less attention to local complications. Early detection of upper‐extremity deep vein thrombosis (UDVT) is essential to prevent serious outcomes such as pulmonary embolism. This study assesses the association between UDVT and blood donation to facilitate identification and improve donor care.
Materials and Methods
A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Notify Library. Reports on therapeutic apheresis and clinical studies were excluded. Articles reporting aggregated data or individual cases of venous thrombosis, thrombophlebitis or phlebitis after donation of blood or components of blood were selected. Furthermore, donor records suggestive of arm thrombosis from December 2022 to January 2025 were extracted from our blood bank database. Donors were interviewed by telephone with a standardized questionnaire.
Results
A literature search yielded 7 reports presenting 9 cases of UDVT, as well as a conference summary describing 20 cases. Arm pain and swelling were common symptoms, typically occurring within hours to days after donation. Risk factors for thrombosis were repeated sport‐related arm movements, complicated phlebotomy, smoking, oral contraceptive use and genetic mutations. In our blood bank, 12 donors reported symptoms suggestive of venous thrombosis. Based on information collected in the interviews, there were three cases of UDVT, four cases of thrombophlebitis, two cases of phlebitis, one finger infection, one leg deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and one haematoma.
Conclusion
UDVT is a rare complication that can occur days after donation. Prompt evaluation and referral to a general practitioner will contribute to preventing harmful consequences.