Retrospective evaluation of indications, transfusion protocols, and acute transfusion reactions associated with the administration of lyophilized canine albumin: 53 cases (2009–2020)

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesTo describe the administration of lyophilized canine albumin (LCA) and determine the increase in serum albumin concentrations post‐LCA transfusion. To describe the incidence and types of acute transfusion reactions (TRs) and associated outcome in dogs presenting to a veterinary teaching hospital.DesignRetrospective and descriptive study from 2009 to 2020.SettingUniversity teaching hospital.AnimalsFifty‐three client‐owned dogs included in the study if they received an LCA transfusion and had vital sign monitoring recorded for at least for 4 hours after starting the LCA transfusion.InterventionsNone.Measurements and Main ResultsThe 53 dogs available for study inclusion received 64 LCA transfusions. Signalment; underlying disease; indications for LCA transfusion; pre‐ and posttransfusion serum albumin concentration; volume, concentration, and dose of LCA; duration of transfusion; administration of other blood products or synthetic colloids; occurrence, timing, and type of TR; length of hospitalization; and outcome were recorded. Serum albumin concentrations increased post‐LCA transfusion, with a median dose of 0.56 g/kg and a median posttransfusion serum albumin increase of 3 g/L (0.3 g/dL) (P = 0.008). TRs occurred in 13 of 64 (20.3%) transfusion events. Volume per kilogram, dose (g/kg), concentration, duration of transfusion, and additional administration of synthetic colloids were not associated with TRs. Three (23%) TRs were classified as febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reaction, 5 (38.5%) as transfusion‐associated dyspnea (development of respiratory distress and limited diagnostics), and 5 (38.5%) had clinical signs that could not be defined by any 1 TR category. Six (46.1%) of 13 events were nonsevere, 5 (38.5%) were severe, and 2 (15.4%) were life‐threatening.ConclusionsAdministration of LCA can be used to increase serum albumin concentrations, although the clinical implications of this increase are unknown. Acute TRs associated with LCA are relatively frequent and can be life‐threatening. Careful monitoring is vital.