Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Life-threatening hemolytic transfusion reactions in dogs from poorly
By Patterson, J et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary internal medicine·2011·Animal Specialty Center, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: In vitro lysis and acute transfusion reactions with hemolysis caused by inappropriate storage of canine red blood cell products.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Four dogs experienced serious reactions after receiving blood transfusions, showing symptoms like hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) and hemoglobinuria (blood in urine). Unfortunately, two of the dogs died, and one had to be euthanized due to worsening symptoms. The issue was traced back to improper storage of the blood products in the clinic's refrigerator. After switching to a new refrigerator specifically for blood storage, the problem was resolved, and no further transfusion reactions occurred.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Transfusion of red blood cell (RBC) products carries considerable risk for adverse reactions, including life-threatening hemolytic reactions. OBJECTIVE: To report the occurrence and investigation of life-threatening acute transfusion reactions with hemolysis in dogs likely related to inappropriate blood product storage. ANIMALS: Four dogs with acute transfusion reactions and other recipients of blood products. METHODS: Medical records were reviewed from 4 dogs with suspected acute hemolytic transfusion reactions after receiving RBC products at a veterinary clinic over a 1-month period. Medical records of other animals receiving blood products in the same time period also were reviewed. Blood compatibility and product quality were assessed, subsequent transfusions were closely monitored, and products were diligently audited. RESULTS: During or immediately after RBC product transfusion, 4 dogs developed hemolysis, hemoglobinuria, or both. Two dogs died and 1 was euthanized because of progressive clinical signs compatible with an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction. Blood type and blood compatibility were confirmed. RBC units from 2 blood banks were found to be hemolyzed after storage in the clinic's refrigerator; no bacterial contamination was identified. After obtaining a new refrigerator dedicated to blood product storage, the problem of hemolyzed units and acute transfusion reactions with hemolysis completely resolved. CONCLUSIONS: Acute life-threatening transfusion reactions can be caused by inappropriate storage of RBC products. In addition to infectious disease screening and ensuring blood-type compatibility, quality assessment of blood products, appropriate collection, processing, and storage techniques as well as recipient monitoring are critical to provide safe, effective transfusions.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21615499/