Which transfusion reaction is characterized by hives and itching?

The transfusion reaction that is characterized by hives and itching is indeed an allergic reaction. This type of reaction occurs when the recipient's immune system responds to protein allergens present in the transfused blood components. These allergens can originate from the donor’s plasma.

Symptoms typically include localized or generalized hives (urticaria), itching, and occasionally, mild respiratory symptoms. The inflammation caused by the release of histamines leads to these skin manifestations. While allergic reactions to transfusions are generally mild and non-life-threatening, they still require recognition and appropriate management to alleviate symptoms, such as antihistamines.

In contrast, other transfusion reactions have distinct characteristics and symptoms. For example, febrile reactions often involve fever and chills due to the recipient's immune response to white blood cells. Circulatory overload results from an excessive volume of blood being transfused too quickly, causing symptoms like difficulty breathing and hypertension. Bacterial reactions typically manifest with fever, chills, and hypotension due to bacterial contamination of the blood product, which can lead to sepsis. Therefore, in the context of hives and itching specifically, an allergic reaction is the most accurate identification.