Transfusion-Related Acute Lung Injury (TRALI) in Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH)

Kim, Soo Hoon; Se, Young Bem; Chun, Hyoung Joon; Kim, Dong Won; Yi, Hyeong Joong

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a poorly understood, but life-threatening complication after transfusion of blood components. The present study was conducted to identify the incidence of TRALI in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) as well as to determine the risk factors for TRALI.
METHODS
This retrospective study was carried out on our institute, during the period of Jan. 2006 and Dec. 2008 to a total of 237 patients who underwent microsurgical treatment for aneurysmal SAH. In this time period, 154 patients were finally enrolled in this study. Patients' demographics, clinical and radiographic factors relevant to the aneurysms and SAH, and parameters regarding transfusion were analyzed and compared.
RESULTS
A total of 9 patients had TRALI among a total of 154 patients. The incidence of TRALI was 0.01% (9 in 836) for all transfused blood component, and 0.06% (9 in 154) for all transfused patients. Statistical analysis showed that Fisher grade III and IV (OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.13-3.07) and total amount of transfused units exceeding 1,200cc (OR 1.72; 95% CI, 1.22-2.65) were associated with the development of TRALI. On the other hand, sex, poor Hunt-Hess Grade (IV and V), preoperative hemoglobin less than 13, postoperative hemoglobin less than 11, use of volume expander, premorbid disease (hypertension, diabetes) were not associated with TRALI.
CONCLUSIONS
The results of present study indicate that large amount SAH and transfusion of blood components more than 1,200cc are risk factors for the development of TRALI. Prospectively designed study with a larger cohort is mandated to confirm the etiology and risk factors of TRALI in stroke practice.