Blood transfusion = Trasfusione del sangue
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Transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO) is a rare life-threatening event associated with transfusion. This study aimed to identify any case of TACO in a large cohort of highly transfused patients with gastrointestinal tract (GI) bleeding. ⋯ This study shows that within the GI setting TACO may be markedly under-reported. Clinical awareness for potential TACO development in GI patients with cardiac or renal disease or age >80 years is now required.
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The endothelium plays a pivotal role in regulating microvascular function, especially in situations associated with acute blood loss. Whether blood donation and the associated volume loss affects the dimensions of the endothelial surface layer (ESL) and glycocalyx integrity remains unknown. ⋯ Dimensions and integrity of the ESL appear to remain stable following a 500 mL whole blood donation and reflect its ability to ensure microvascular function and perfusion.
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Several factors contribute to the manifestation of red blood cell (RBC) storage lesions, with one of the most interesting being the "donor variation effect". Since many haematological characteristics of blood donors are sex-dependent, sex hormones and their age-dependent variation may affect the storage profile of RBCs. ⋯ Donor's sex has an impact on Hb concentration and redox parameters of stored RBCs. In addition, menopause seems to promote RBC membrane remodelling, at least during prolonged storage. Our pilot study provides new insights on the different effects on RBC storage lesion according to sex.