Evaluation of random donor platelets at different temperatures for an ex- tended shelf life

Platelet concentrates can be stored for five days at 22 C. Our objective was to increase the storage of platelets to 7 days by decreasing the storage temperature. Lower temperature may minimize chances of bacterial proliferation and also maintain platelet functions to optimum level. The study sample iincluded 25 blood donors of both sex in State Blood Bank, Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj Medical University, Lucknow. Complete history of donors was taken to exclude any infection and disease. The platelet concentrates were prepared by platelet rich plasma (PRP) method. The whole blood (350 ml.) was collected in anticoagulant Citrate Phosphate Dextrose Adenine (CPDA) triple blood bags. Random donor platelet concentrates were evaluated on day 0, day 5 and day 7 at different temperatures of storage period. Platelet swirling was present in all the units at all the temperatures on day 7 with no evidence of bacterial contamination. Comparison of the mean values of platelet count, PF 3, lactate dehydrogenase, pH, glucose and platelet aggregation, showed no significant difference at 22 C and 18 C while PF 3, pH and glucose level showed a significant difference on day 7 at a temperature of 16 C.