Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) Save
ICD-10 code: J95.84
Chapter: Diseases of the respiratory system
Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI)
Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a severe complication that can occur during or after a blood transfusion. It is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that causes acute respiratory distress, hypoxia, and pulmonary edema. TRALI is caused by an immune reaction between the donor's antibodies and the recipient's white blood cells.
TRALI is a type of transfusion reaction that is commonly associated with the transfusion of plasma-containing blood products, such as whole blood, red blood cells, and platelets. The symptoms of TRALI typically appear within the first six hours of a transfusion and may last up to 72 hours. The symptoms of TRALI include:
- Sudden onset of respiratory distress
- Hypoxia (low oxygen levels in the blood)
- Pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs)
- Fever and chills
- Low blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
If you experience any of these symptoms during or after a blood transfusion, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
The exact cause of TRALI is not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by an immune reaction between the donor's antibodies and the recipient's white blood cells. This immune reaction leads to the release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators, which cause damage to the lungs and lead to the symptoms of TRALI.
To prevent TRALI, blood banks and transfusion services have implemented strict donor screening and testing protocols. These protocols help to identify donors who may have a higher risk of causing TRALI and exclude them from donating blood or blood products. Additionally, blood products that are associated with a higher risk of TRALI, such as plasma-containing products, are now often subjected to additional processing steps to reduce the risk of TRALI.
While TRALI is a rare complication of blood transfusions, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of them during or after a transfusion. With the implementation of strict donor screening and testing protocols, the risk of TRALI has been greatly reduced in recent years.