From the Research
Albumin infusion is contraindicated in patients with severe heart failure, severe anemia, hypersensitivity to albumin, severe protein allergies, renal failure not on dialysis, hepatic failure with ascites, traumatic brain injury, and bleeding disorders. The primary concern with albumin infusion in these conditions is the potential to worsen fluid-related complications, such as cardiac overload, pulmonary edema, and fluid overload, which can negatively impact morbidity, mortality, and quality of life 1. Some key points to consider when evaluating the contraindications of albumin infusion include:
- Patients with severe heart failure should avoid albumin infusions as the increased intravascular volume can worsen cardiac overload and pulmonary edema.
- Those with severe anemia should not receive albumin as it doesn't improve oxygen-carrying capacity and may dilute existing red blood cells.
- Patients with hypersensitivity to albumin or its components may experience allergic reactions ranging from mild rashes to anaphylaxis.
- Individuals with severe protein allergies should be monitored carefully.
- Albumin is relatively contraindicated in patients with renal failure who are not on dialysis as it may worsen fluid overload.
- Those with hepatic failure and ascites should use albumin cautiously as it may not effectively maintain oncotic pressure in these conditions.
- Patients with traumatic brain injury should avoid albumin as it may increase intracranial pressure.
- Albumin should be used with extreme caution in patients with bleeding disorders since it doesn't contain clotting factors and may dilute existing ones. It's essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of albumin infusion in each patient, considering their individual condition and medical history, to minimize adverse outcomes and optimize quality of life 2, 3.