Studies of Platelet Concentrates Stored at 22 C and 4 C

Abstract

As measured by stability of p H, aggregability, and structure, concentrated platelets are better preserved for 72 hours at 4 C than at 22 C. While survival in vivo , as determined with 51 Cr, of platelets stored at room temperature is extremely variable, survival of platelets stored at 4 C is invariably shortened to two to three days. In the treatment of bleeding in thrombocytopenic patients, however, platelets kept at 4 C for 24 to 72 hours are superior to those kept at 22 C with respect to their capacity to shorten the bleeding time and effect hemostasis. The relative ineffectiveness of platelets kept at 22 C for 72 hours appears to be the result of a functional defect which develops during storage at ambient temperature. We suggest that until a means is found to prevent the functional abnormality which develops during storage at 22 C., platelet concentrates should be refrigerated if they are to be stored for 24 hours or longer prior to being transfused.