What characterizes a febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reaction?

A febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reaction is characterized primarily by fever and chills that occur as a result of the recipient's immune response to the transfused blood components. This type of reaction is commonly associated with the release of pyrogens, which are substances that induce fever, typically in response to leukocytes in the donated blood. The recipient's immune system identifies these foreign cells as a potential threat, triggering an immune response that results in the observable symptoms of fever and chills.

This reaction is usually mild and self-limiting, and it often arises from the recipient's sensitivity to the white blood cells, platelets, or other factors present in the donor blood. The immune response does not involve damage to red blood cells, differentiating it from hemolytic transfusion reactions, which can cause more severe symptoms and carry greater risks.

The other options provided relate to symptoms that are not typical of this specific reaction. Swelling at the injection site, bloating, and abdominal pain typically refer to different types of transfusion reactions or complications, while rapid breathing and dizziness are more indicative of other cardiovascular issues or severe reactions rather than the specific febrile non-hemolytic type. Thus, the hallmark symptoms of fever and chills