National audit of citrate toxicity in plateletpheresis donors

Abstract

Plateletpheresis is a relatively safe procedure provided that donors who experience severe reactions receive appropriate treatment. The incidence of severe citrate toxicity (0.03% procedures) is comparable to that of severe faints following whole blood donation, indicating a comparable margin of safety. Donors should be warned of the symptoms of citrate toxicity at their first attendance only. More frequent reminders encourage donors to over-report symptoms of mild citrate toxicity.