TRANSFUSION ASSOCIATED CIRCULATORY OVERLOAD
Transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO) is a major cause of transfusion-related morbidity and mortality, especially in countries with well-developed transfusion services. the risk factors are well-described and include:
- cardiac, pulmonary, or renal disease
- older age (≥70 years)
- low bodyweight (e.g. infants)
- severe anaemia
- a positive fluid balance, peripheral oedema or regular diuretics
TACO can often be prevented through:
- pre-transfusion diuretics
- limiting transfusion volumes, prescribing in mL/kg for infants
- close monitoring and strict fluid balance
- avoiding elective overnight transfusion
As TACO is arguably the commonest preventable cause of transfusion-associated mortality and major morbidity, we have a responsibility to understand the condition better and to focus efforts on raising awareness and reducing prevalence of the condition.
