AJCL2301 - CME/CMLE - Drugs and Conditions that May Mimic Hemolysis: A Case of Pink Plasma-Drugs and Conditions that May Mimic Hemolysis: A Case of Pink Plasma

Drugs and Conditions that May Mimic Hemolysis: A Case of Pink Plasma

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The article discusses the visual assessment of plasma for hemolysis as an essential part of investigating acute hemolytic transfusion reactions. It highlights substances and conditions that can mimic hemolysis in vitro, leading to plasma discoloration. Various drugs and conditions such as hydroxocobalamin, canthaxanthin, clofazimine, and others can cause colors like orange, red, or brown in plasma, resembling hemolysis. The distinction between in vivo hemolysis and mimickers is often unclear based on laboratory findings alone, necessitating a thorough evaluation. The case presented involved a patient who underwent surgery and received multiple blood products and vasopressors, leading to posttransfusion pink to orange plasma discoloration attributed to hydroxocobalamin therapy. Factors like patient-specific conditions and preanalytic errors can lead to in vitro hemolysis, warranting careful consideration during evaluation.<br /><br />The study underlines the importance of promptly evaluating suspected hemolysis, including ruling out traumatic draw, considering patient-specific factors, and recognizing substances or conditions that can mimic hemolysis. Misidentification of plasma discoloration can occur due to various preanalytic and patient-specific factors, necessitating a comprehensive workup. The authors stress the need for standard practices in the evaluation of hemolytic reactions and the importance of differentiating true hemolysis from mimickers for appropriate patient management.

Keywords

plasma assessment

hemolysis investigation

acute transfusion reactions

in vitro hemolysis

plasma discoloration

substances mimicking hemolysis

in vivo hemolysis

posttransfusion plasma discoloration

patient-specific conditions

preanalytic errors