What is a common sign of a transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI)?

A common sign of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is acute respiratory distress shortly after the transfusion. TRALI is characterized by the sudden onset of respiratory symptoms, often occurring within six hours of receiving a blood transfusion. This acute respiratory distress is due to the development of non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema caused by an immune reaction to the transfused blood components, commonly related to antibodies in the donor plasma that react with the recipient's leukocytes.

This condition typically presents with symptoms such as severe shortness of breath, low oxygen saturation, and hypotension, distinguishing it from other transfusion reactions that may have different symptomatology, timeframe, and underlying mechanisms. Understanding these signs is crucial for timely intervention and management, making it vital for healthcare providers to recognize the signs of TRALI to ensure patient safety during transfusion therapy.