Usual cause
Volume overload usually due to rapid or massive transfusion of blood in patients with diminished cardiac reserve or chronic anaemia.
Incidence
Up to 1% of patients receiving transfusions (1),(2).
Main clinical features: Dyspnoea, orthopnea, cyanosis, tachycardia, increased blood pressure and pulmonary oedema.
Investigation
Clinical assessment.
Intervention
Stop transfusion and treat symptoms with oxygen, diuretics therapy and upright position. In susceptible patients, transfusion should be administered slowly and in the most concentrated form possible.