Is one-size-fits-all strategy adequate for platelet storage?

Abstract

BackgroundPlatelet suspensions (PSs) are stored at room temperature. However, recent reports show that PSs stored at 4 °C possess superior hemostatic properties. We compared the viabilities and thrombin generation capacities of PSs stored either at 4 °C or 22 °C hours. Materials and MethodsTwenty units of apheresis derived platelets (ADPs) from 20 male donors and 20 units of random platelet suspensions (RPSs) from another 20 male donors were obtained. Half of the ADPs and half of the RPSs (10 units/per group) were stored at 4 °C, the other halves of ADPs and RPSs (10 units/per group) were stored in agitators at 22 °C for 48 hours. The flow cytometric viability tests and thrombin generation tests of the PSs were assessed. ResultsThe viabilities of both ADPs and RPSs group platelets, stored either at 4 °C or 22 °C for 48 hours, were not statistically significantly different. The ADPs and RPSs stored at 4 °C generated significantly higher peak thrombin levels than the platelets stored at 22 °C. Moreover, the ADPs group stored at 4 °C showed significantly shorter time to thrombin generation and reach peak levels. ConclusionThe PSs stored at 4 °C showed higher and faster thrombin generation capacities than the room temperature PSs. Given the superior hemostatic properties of refrigerated platelets, creating different storage temperature capabilities for specific transfusion purposes may be a prudent approach, especially for improving the outcome of bleeding trauma casualties.