Retrospective Evaluation of Cryoprecipitate Transfusion in Dogs to Prevent or Treat Hemorrhage: 21 Cases (2009-2023).

Abstract

Objective: To report homologous cryoprecipitate transfusions in dogs with hemostatic disorders, hemorrhage, or risk of hemorrhage, and to report adverse reactions associated with these cryoprecipitate transfusions.

Design: Retrospective case series (July 2009 to July 2023).

Setting: University teaching hospital.

Animals: Twenty-one client-owned dogs with hemostatic disorders, hemorrhage, or risk of procedure-related hemorrhage.

Interventions: None.

Measurements and main results: All dogs received homologous cryoprecipitate transfusion. Sixteen dogs had von Willebrand disease (one also had factor XI deficiency); three dogs had hemophilia A; and two dogs had normal concentration of von Willebrand factor and were not diagnosed with any hemostatic disorder. Sixteen dogs also received other blood products and/or hemostatic medications. Twenty-two cryoprecipitate transfusions were administered to 16 dogs before, during, or after surgery; 16 of those 22 transfusions were given to 14 dogs without evidence of hemorrhage but with history of bleeding disorder and/or previous hemorrhage with the aim of preventing hemorrhage. Eight transfusions were given to six dogs to control hemorrhage not associated with surgery. Sixteen dogs (18 transfusions) received cryoprecipitate prepared in-house. Five dogs (12 transfusions) received a commercial lyophilized cryoprecipitate. No dog developed any serious adverse reactions to cryoprecipitate transfusion. All dogs were discharged from the hospital (median, 2 days after cryoprecipitate transfusion [range, 1-25 days]). The benefits of cryoprecipitate transfusion could not be well documented because of the retrospective nature of this study and the concurrent administration of other blood products and/or hemostatic medications to 16 dogs.

Conclusions: Homologous cryoprecipitate transfusion appeared to be safe when administered for prevention or treatment of hemorrhage in dogs, but additional studies to assess safety and efficacy are warranted.