Comparison of changes in platelet count, mean platelet volume and swirling in stored platelet concentrates with and without platelet additive solution

Abstract

Background: Stored platelet concentrates (PC) are in increasing demand for transfusion to patients with thrombocytopenia or disordered platelet function with active bleeding. Platelets are difficult to preserve in vitro for longer period of time. Different platelet additive solutions (PAS) have been formulated which can increase the survival period of PC during storage. Study Design: Comparative study. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out to compare in vitro changes in platelet indices [platelet count and mean platelet volume (MPV)] and extent of swirling in stored PC with and without PAS stored for 10 day. Results: This study included 42 samples of random donor platelet concentrates, divided into two groups. In one group, PC were stored without PAS while in other group PAS was added to PC before storage. Changes in platelets count and MPV were monitored by using automated hematology cell analyzer, in both groups on day 0, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Bacterial cultures were also applied to detect bacterial contamination of PC. The results showed that mean platelet count of PC stored without PAS was 5.6 + 0.1 x 1010/L on day 0 and it was 5.5 + 0.5 x 1010/L in PC stored with PAS. The difference between the two groups started becoming statistically significant by day 7. Platelet count was significantly lower in PC without PAS as compared to the PC stored with PAS (P value ≤ 0.001). The difference in the mean platelet volume (MPV) between two groups was highly significant during 10 days storage (P value ≤ 0.001). Swirling was better seen in PC stored in PAS as compared to PC stored without PAS during 10 days storage. Blood cultures were applied on 42 samples on days 0, 5 and 10. Bacterial contamination occurred in few samples in both groups, those samples were not processed further. Conclusion: This study showed that the use of PAS in platelet concentrate storage bags increased the shelf life and viability of platelets as compared to those without PAS.