Description

Sanders et al graded circulatory overload associated with transfusion therapy using a system modeled after the Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) for adverse effects of cancer therapy. The authors are from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, University of Tennessee and McMaster University.


 

There should be evidence of positive fluid balance (fluid intake > fluid output).

 

Parameters:

(1) pulmonary findings

(2) peripheral findings (peripheral edema and/or increased blood pressure)

(3) therapy (other than discontinuing fluid administration)

 

Pulmonary Findings

Peripheral Findings

Therapy Required

Grade

none

none

none

0

changes on chest X-ray only; asymptomatic

none

none

1

mild symptoms

mild

none

2

moderate symptoms

moderate

oxygen required

3

life-threatening

significant

ventilatory support

4

death

NA

NA

5

 

Differential diagnosis:

(1) circulatory overload from other cause

(2) sudden decrease in cardiac function

 


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