Session 8: Internal medicine; diagnostic imaging; cardiology

Abstract

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effect of premedication with intravenous chlorphenamine on blood transfusion outcome in dogs; specifically, for transfusion associated complications (TAC). MethodsA retrospective observational study was performed at a UK University referral hospital between 2009 and 2019. Canine patients that received either whole blood (WB) or packed red blood cells (PRBC) were identified through databases searches. Information recorded included signalment, pretreatment with chlorphenamine, other medication administered and cause of anaemia. TAC and various transfusion variables were also recorded; temperature, pulse, respiratory rate and blood pressure before, during and after transfusion, pre-and post-transfusion packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin, serum bilirubin and urinalysis, duration and rate of transfusion and survival to discharge. ResultsA total of 56 dogs received 77 blood transfusions. The prevalence of TAC was 20.8% for all transfusions and 21.4% for first transfusion events. Febrile non haemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTR), followed by vomiting post transfusion were most frequent. The percentage of TAC was 25.0% for dogs receiving PRBC compared with 13.8% for those receiving WB. There was no significant difference found between those pre-medicated with chlorphenamine and those that were not for TAC (P = 0.393), survival to discharge (P = 0.377), post-transfusion PCV (P = 0.213), specific TAC (type 1 hypersensitivity reactions (P = 0.680)) or when dogs received immunosuppressants (P = 0.590). Statement (conclusions)The prevalence of TAC was consistent with previous literature; these were mild and often selflimiting. In addition, this study suggested no indication for prophylactic chlorphenamine prior to canine blood transfusions.