Fresh Frozen Plasma Plus Furosemide As a Potential Human Albumin Substitute in Cancer Patients in Resource-Limited Settings

4. International Cancer Days, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Sivas,  Turkiye. Date: 28.9.2023

FRESH FROZEN PLASMA PLUS FUROSEMIDE AS A POTENTIAL HUMAN ALBUMIN SUBSTITUTE IN CANCER PATIENTS IN RESOURCE-LIMITED SETTINGS

Metin Yarıcı, Mehmet Eren Yuksel

Etlik City Hospital, Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Ankara, Turkiye

Introduction: Human albumin's high cost and scarcity pose significant challenges in resource-constrained healthcare settings. Though concerns about bloodborne diseases, clotting factors, and adverse reactions remain, fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is emerging as a cost-effective alternative. This study looks into the feasibility of combining FFP and furosemide to address these concerns and provide a practical solution.

Methods: From 2000 to 2023, a comprehensive review of PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted to identify studies that used FFP as an alternative to human albumin. Data on clotting, transfusion reactions, and cost-effectiveness were extracted and analyzed.

Results: Despite the widespread preference for human albumin, the treatment with FFP and furosemide remains promising, particularly in resource-constrained settings. It is critical to administer FFP with caution, address transfusion reactions, and ensure ABO compatibility. The importance of safe transfusion practices and vigilant infectious disease risk management cannot be overstated. Choosing FFP wisely while avoiding unnecessary administration has clinical and economic benefits.

Conclusion: Given the general preference for human albumin in the medical literature, the combination of FFP and furosemide is promising in resource-limited healthcare. While more research is needed, careful examination of this strategy may solve problems associated with cost and availability of human albumin in low-income countries.

Keywords: Fresh frozen plasma, furosemide, human albumin, transfusions