Transfusion-associated lung injury (TRALI)

Question 1

What does TRALI stand for?

Answer 1

Transfusion-associated lung injury

TRALI is a serious complication that can occur after blood transfusions.

Question 2

When should TRALI be suspected after a transfusion?

Answer 2

If a patient has an ARDS-like presentation with bilateral crackles and low O2 saturation within 6 hours following a transfusion.

ARDS stands for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, indicating severe respiratory failure.

Question 3

What is the mechanism of TRALI?

Answer 3

Abnormal priming of neutrophils in the lung that react to cytokines within transfused blood products.

This mechanism highlights the immune response triggered by the transfused blood.

Question 4

What type of pulmonary edema is TRALI classified as?

Answer 4

Non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema.

This classification distinguishes TRALI from other types of pulmonary edema that are related to heart issues.