Platelet Transfusion

Excerpt

Blood transfusion practices have evolved since the first attempt to administer the treatment in the 17th century. The therapy has transitioned from whole blood to component therapy, including packed red blood cells, platelets, white blood cells, frozen plasma, and plasma-derived products. Platelets' integral role in hemostasis became apparent in the 1950s and 1960s from studies of severe hemorrhagic complications in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Blood collection using glass bottles in the mid-20th century often resulted in platelet depletion during storage. The advent of plastic bags revolutionized blood storage, as plastic's gas permeability was found to be essential for preserving functional platelets. Separation technique advances enabled the development of apheresis for high-yield platelet component collection. Safety protocol enhancements have decreased adverse transfusion outcomes. Ongoing efforts aim to improve blood transfusion safety measures further.

Platelet concentrates are widely used for treating severe thrombocytopenia, which may occur in patients with hematologic malignancy, bone marrow failure, and other immune and nonimmune causes of platelet destruction. Transfusion with normal platelet counts is rare. Platelets are a scarce resource, partly because of their short shelf life of 5 days. Thus, the World Health Organization includes these blood products in its Essential Medicines list.