Febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reaction

This code represents a non-life-threatening adverse reaction to a blood transfusion characterized by a fever without evidence of red blood cell destruction. It occurs when recipient antibodies react to donor white blood cells or platelets, releasing pyrogenic cytokines. Symptoms typically include a temperature increase of 1°C or more during or within four hours of the transfusion.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a febrile reaction to a blood product transfusion, and hemolytic causes have been ruled out. This diagnosis is often supported by a temperature spike, chills, and the absence of signs of hemolysis (e.g., hemoglobinuria, decreasing hemoglobin/hematocrit). It applies to reactions to whole blood, packed red blood cells, platelets, or plasma.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonhemolytic" or provides sufficient detail to rule out hemolysis.
• Do not confuse with hemolytic transfusion reactions (T80.81-) which involve red blood cell destruction and are more severe.
• Sequence this code after the primary reason for the transfusion, if applicable, or as the primary diagnosis if the reaction is the sole reason for the encounter.