Large-Dose Albumin Supplementation Does Not Reduce Mortality or Need for Critical Care Interventions: Retrospective Review
No significant differences were identified in baseline characteristics of patients who received <25 mg/kg/%TBSA/day of human albumin solutions and those who received more than this quantity.
- By BSTQ Staff
Serious burns affecting ≥20% of the total body surface area (TBSA) trigger capillary leakage and loss of serum proteins, including albumin, commonly resulting in persistent hypoalbuminemia. Investigators conducted a retrospective review of 38 cases treated at Taipei Veterans General Hospital between January 2007 and December 2018 to determine whether more aggressive albumin supplementation can benefit major burn patients with persistent hypoalbuminemia.
No significant differences were identified in baseline characteristics of patients who received <25 mg/kg/%TBSA/day of human albumin solutions and those who received more than this quantity. Renal replacement therapy, duration of mechanical ventilation, length of stay in the burn unit and in-hospital mortality were not statistically different between the two groups. The serum C-reactive protein/ albumin ratio was associated with in-hospital mortality (P = 0.036). The investigators concluded no significant mortality benefit was associated with administration of large quantities of supplemental albumin to correct prolonged hypoalbuminemia in major burn patients.
References
Chen YF, Ma H, Perng CK, et al. Albumin supplementation may have limited effects on prolonged hypoalbuminemia in major burn patients: An outcome and prognostic factor analysis. J Chin Med Assoc 2020 Feb;83(2):206-10.
