Platelet Transfusions

Plateletpheresis: a comparative study of six different protocols

Six different protocols were employed in 710 plateletpheresis employing Haemonetics 30, Fenwal CS-3000, IBM 2997 dual stage channel, IBM 2997 single-stage channel, and Haemonetics V-50 "surge pump" method. When Haemonetics 30 and IBM 2997 single-stage channel procedures were used, 5.4 to 5.9 X 10(11) platelets were collected with significant leukocyte contamination (10.8 to 11.6 X 10(9)). With Fenwal CS-3000, dual-stage channel of IBM 2997 and Haemonetics V-50 "surge pump" there was less leukocyte contamination in concentrates (0.3 to 0.9 X 10(9)) as well as a lower platelet yield (3.4 to 4.3 X 10(11)). No difference in yield was observed when plateletpheresis was performed with ACD-A or ACD-B employing the single-stage channel of IBM 2997. Paresthesias was the most frequently seen side effect in donors, with a higher incidence when using ACD-A and IBM 2997.

Oncology Grand Rounds. Platelet transfusion--clinical applications in the oncology setting

The increased availability of platelets for transfusion has been a major factor in the improved prognosis noted in patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia. This review summarizes our current understanding of the proper use of platelet transfusion for patients with leukemia and cancer, with a particular emphasis on the management of alloimmunized patients. The need for careful and close collaboration between the blood bank and the referring clinicians is emphasized. Cryopreservation of autologous platelets, which can be of considerable assistance in the management of alloimmunized patients, and a summary of the large number of questions that still require further investigation are presented.

Platelet transfusion therapy

Platelet transfusions are of unquestionably proven benefit for the correction of thrombocytopenia or functional platelet disorders, and they have allowed for more intensive antineoplastic therapy. With the advent of blood component therapy most modern blood banks now have the capabilities for supplying at least limited quantities of platelets. Refinements in procurement methods will inevitably lead to a greater supply of platelets and the establishment of larger transfusion programs. These programs will need to incorporate facilities for platelet storage, recruitment of suitable donors, selection of special donors for refractory patients, and methods for quality control. As antineoplastic therapy becomes more aggressive, such transfusion programs will become an integral part of the operation of cancer treatment centers.

Plateletpheresis using the haemonetics model 30 cell separator

Plateletpheresis using the Haemonetics Model 30 cell separator results in a mean collection of 5.5 X 10(11) platelets. This product contains substantial numbers of erythrocytes and mononuclear cells which can be effectively removed by centrifugation but with a 23% loss of platelets as well. The mean decrement in donor's platelet count during the procedure, which is 78,000/mm3, is not commensurate with the number of platelets collected suggesting donor platelet mobilization. Platelets collected by this technic, when transfused into unselected recipients, give platelet increments comparable to platelets produced in the standard batch manner.