Successful xenotransfusion in a domestic ferret with spontaneous hemoperitoneum using feline packed red blood cells

Abstract

ObjectiveTo describe the diagnosis, management, and outcome of a ferret with spontaneous hemoperitoneum with surgical intervention and xenotransfusion of type A feline packed red blood cells (pRBCs).Case SummaryA domestic ferret diagnosed with a spontaneous hemoperitoneum secondary to a hepatic mass received isotonic crystalloids, hypertonic saline, and an allogenic blood transfusion perioperatively. Postoperatively, the ferret developed progressive anemia and tachycardia refractory to fluid therapy and, given a lack of additional allogenic blood sources, received a xenotransfusion of feline pRBCs. The ferret was hospitalized for 4 days postoperatively and developed a presumed delayed transfusion reaction characterized by transient hyperbilirubinemia. At a 6‐month recheck, the ferret was doing well clinically.New or Unique Information ProvidedThis is the first reported case of successful xenotransfusion of feline pRBCs in a ferret. Although xenotransfusion of ferrets with feline blood products is not recommended as a routine procedure, it remains a viable option in critical situations in which ferret blood is unavailable.

Major crossmatch compatibility of rabbit blood with rabbit, canine, and feline blood

“…19 In the limited number of case reports of xenotransfusion in nondomestic species, no acute or delayed transfusion reactions were observed. [2][3][4] To the authors' knowledge, there are no case reports of serial xenotransfusions and subsequent recipient sensitization in rabbits. Further prospective research is needed to determine if xenotransfusion is associated with a higher incidence of acute and delayed transfusion reactions in rabbits than allogeneic transfusions.…”

“…Emergency xenotransfusion between domestic animal blood donors and zoological animal recipients has been previously described, including canine whole blood to an island fox (Urocyon littoralis), 2 bovine packed red blood cells (pRBCs) to a blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus), 3 and feline pRBCs to a ferret (Mustela furo). 4 Crossmatch testing is performed to minimize the risk of immunemediated hemolytic transfusion reactions and alloimmunization, prolong donor RBC life span, and improve blood transfusion efficacy. [5][6][7][8] While blood typing can determine the presence of known RBC surface antigens (ie, alloantigens), crossmatch testing can help determine if a patient has in vitro serological compatibility with a potential blood donor.…”

“…If a conspecific blood donor rabbit is not readily available or facilitating a blood donation delays transfusion, a blood transfusion from another species (ie, xenotransfusion) may be a life‐saving alternative. Emergency xenotransfusion between domestic animal blood donors and zoological animal recipients has been previously described, including canine whole blood to an island fox ( Urocyon littoralis ), 2 bovine packed red blood cells (pRBCs) to a blue wildebeest ( Connochaetes taurinus ), 3 and feline pRBCs to a ferret ( Mustela furo ) 4 …”

Preliminary Investigation of Bovine Whole Blood Xenotransfusion as a Therapeutic Modality for the Treatment of Anemia in Goats

“…Icterus and delayed hemolysis have also been reported in feline patients receiving canine blood (5,16). Hyperbilirubinemia was observed in a domestic ferret transfused with type A feline packed red blood cells (21). Overall, there are several complications associated with xenotransfusions including hemolytic reactions, febrile transfusion reactions, and azotemia, and hyperbilirubinemia.…”

Xenotransfusion of Blood from Dog to Cat: Should Canine Blood Be Our First Choice for Feline Transfusion in Emergency Situations?

“…Xenotransfusion of blood from domestic dogs can be considered for captive non-domesticated canids [ 30 ]. Xenotransfusion’s benefits and lack of adverse effects should be studied in domestic animals such as the ferret, in which collecting and storing blood is problematic [ 31 , 32 ].…”