Exacerbation of hyperlactatemia by infusion of lactated Ringer's solution in dogs with lymphoma

Blood lactate concentrations and acid‐base status of six dogs with lymphoma were compared statistically with those from six healthy control dogs before, during, and after a 6‐hour infusion of lactated Ringer's solution (LRS). Blood lactate concentrations in dogs with lymphoma were significantly (P < 0.05) higher immediately before, and at the 1‐, 2‐, 4‐, and 6‐hour time periods after infusion when compared with controls. Blood lactate concentrations increased significantly (P= 0.016) after the first hour of infusion in dogs with lymphoma but did not increase in the control dogs. The increase in blood lactate concentrations over baseline values after 1 hour of LRS infusion was significantly (P= 0.008) greater in dogs with lymphoma when compared with controls. Blood lactate concentrations returned to baseline levels after 2 hours of infusion in dogs with lymphoma, suggesting that dogs with lymphoma have a transient inability to handle increased lactate loads when compared with controls. However, the potential to augment lactate use, clearance, or both is present and does occur over time. Blood gas values were not significantly altered within the lymphoma or control dog groups after 6 hours of LRS infusion. Blood bicarbonate concentrations in dogs with lymphoma were significantly decreased before and after LRS infusion when compared with controls.