2016 ACVIM Forum Research Abstract Program

A lower starting dose of leflunomide of 2 mg/kg/day than the current suggested dose of leflunomide of 3-4 mg/kg/day is recommended based on the findings in this study. Storage of blood products creates an unnatural environment that can accelerate product degradation and pose risk to the recipient. Eicosanoids are arachidonic acid-derived bioactive molecules that are involved in inflammation and can accumulate inside units of packed red blood cells (pRBCs). Since leukocytes and platelets are the primary sources of eicosanoid synthesis within units of pRBCs, removal of these cells via leukoreduction may decrease eicosanoid synthesis and potentially reduce the risk of transfusionrelated complications.