In vitro platelet quality in storage containers used for pediatric transfusions

Abstract

Background: The in vitro quality of small-volume platelet (PLT) aliquots for pediatric transfusions was assessed to determine the best practice approach. Study Design and Methods: Small volumes (50 mL) of single apheresis PLT components (APCs), collected on either CaridianBCT Trima or Haemonetics MCS+ instruments, were aliquoted on Days 2, 3, 4, and 5 postcollection into Fenwal PL1240 or 4R2014 bags or 60-mL polypropylene syringes. Samples were tested for in vitro quality at their recommended expiry times (4 hr for 4R2014 bags and syringes or Day 5 for PL1240 bags). Assays included pH, CD62P expression, and metabolic measures. Results: CD62P expression increased throughout storage in all containers. Among the small-volume containers, pH, pCO 2, lactate, and bicarbonate varied considerably. Regardless of the day of aliquoting, pCO 2 was significantly higher and pO 2 was significantly lower in gas-impermeable syringes than other containers. No bacterial growth was detected in any sample. Conclusion: The quality of APCs aliquoted into small-volume containers meets regulatory requirements and is generally equivalent to that of full-volume APCs at expiry. © 2012 American Association of Blood Banks.