Effect of Blood Storage on Complete Biochemistry

Background: Prolonged storage of blood leads to alteration in RBCs biochemistry which may lose viability with time. Aim: This study was planned to observe biochemical changes on stored blood on 19 different analytes. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on blood donated by 30 healthy volunteer donors. Effect of storage was analyzed at 0, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days interval. Biochemical parameters were measured using Randox suzuka autoanalyzer and Combiline ISE analyzer. Results: Significant changes were observed in serum phosphorus, SGOT, serum protein, LDH, pH, serum chloride, ionized calcium, serum sodium, potassium and bicarbonate levels (p<0.05 for ionized calcium, serum protein and p<0.001for rest of the parameters). On the other hand there was no impact of storage time on rest of the parameters. Conclusion: Prolonged contact of plasma with RBCs results in exchange of contents between plasma and red cells which leads to changes in analyte concentrations as well as dilution. RBC stored for a period of time at 4°C loose viability. Some may undergo spontaneous hemolysis while in storage; others lose the ability to survive in the recipient’s circulation following transfusion. Inspite of storing blood with CPDA, the storage time has a negative impact on the biochemical composition of RBCs. Therefore, it is better to give patients fresh blood with less than 7 days of storage in order to decrease the levels of non-viable red blood cells.