Assessment of Albumin Usage Patterns and Appropriateness in a Comprehensive Cancer Centre: A retrospective study in Jordan

Abstract

Objectives: Albumin is commonly used for various indications; however, there is conflicting data regarding its appropriate use in different clinical cases. This study aimed to determine the pattern and appropriateness of albumin use among cancer patients at the King Hussein Cancer Center in Jordan. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on adult cancer patients who were prescribed albumin between January 2019 and July 2020 in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Data collected included demographics, prescribing services, indications and dosing regimens. A literature review was performed using PubMed to assess the appropriateness of albumin indications and dosing regimens against current guidelines, drug information resources and the package insert. Results: Albumin was prescribed to 1,361 patients during the study period. Each patient received an average of 74.4 ± 89 g of albumin for an average of 2.6 ± 1.8 days. Albumin use was deemed appropriate in 69% of the patients. The critical care service accounted for the highest albumin consumption, with 37% of prescriptions for septic shock. Inappropriate use of albumin was most prevalent in the medical solid tumour services (40.8% of prescriptions), primarily for edema (28%). Conclusion: To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to evaluate albumin use in a large cohort of oncology patients. Approximately one-third of the albumin prescriptions were considered inappropriate. Continuous education on appropriate usage and regular evaluations of guideline adherence are essential to ensure proper utilisation of albumin in cancer care.