Which symptom may indicate an acute hemolytic reaction during a blood transfusion?

Chest pain is a significant symptom that may indicate an acute hemolytic reaction during a blood transfusion. An acute hemolytic reaction occurs when the recipient's immune system attacks the transfused red blood cells, often due to ABO incompatibility. This immunological response leads to the release of inflammatory mediators and hemolysis, which can cause a variety of systemic symptoms, including severe chest pain.

The chest pain associated with this type of reaction can result from several factors, including the activation of the complement system and the subsequent inflammation in the body, which could affect the cardiovascular system. This symptom serves as a critical indicator that the body is reacting adversely to the transfusion and requires immediate medical intervention.

While jaundice, dry skin, and confusion can be associated with various medical conditions, they are not typically immediate indicators of an acute hemolytic reaction in the context of blood transfusions. Jaundice may develop later due to increased bilirubin as a result of hemolysis, but it is not an acute symptom. Dry skin is not related to blood transfusion reactions, and confusion can occur due to several factors including hypoxia or metabolic disturbances, but it is not a direct symptom of an acute hemolytic reaction.