Preparation of platelet concentrates after overnight hold at 20 degrees C.
The clinical demand for platelet concentrates has increased dramatically in the last decade, and poses logistical problems for regional transfusion centres. Pietersz et al. (Vox Sang 1989; 56: 145-150) have shown that it is possible to prepare clinically effective platelet concentrates with substantially reduced white cell contamination, whilst maintaining satisfactory levels of factor VIII:C after holding whole blood at 20 degrees C overnight. This approach offers a method of production that will allow platelet concentrates to be prepared from potentially all donations collected, without resorting to extensive out-of-hours working. Following laboratory evaluation of the procedure we were able to reproduce Pietersz's findings, although hypotonic shock response results were less favourable than observed in our routine platelet concentrates.
Booth
T
T
National Blood Transfusion Service (Wales), Rhydlafar, Cardiff, UK.
Hayward
M M
MM
Brewer
M D
MD
Priday
C
C
Trenchard
P M
PM
D003080:Cold Temperature; D006801:Humans; D010983:Plateletpheresis / Q000379:methods*; D013048:Specimen Handling; D013995:Time