Storage-induced morphological changes in erythrocytes

Introduction. Advances in storage techniques of erythrocyte concentrates have contributed to develop significant erythrocyte morphologic abnormalities which have been associated with greater damage in the microcirculation, multiple organ dysfunction and increased morbidity and mortality. Objective. To evaluate the changes in erythrocyte morphology related to storage time. Material and methods. We analyzed the morphologic changes in erythrocyte in relation to the storage time of the globular packages that were transfused. The blood smear was wisdom with Wright’s technique and was evaluated by two observers who evaluated the percentage of morphologic alterations. Results. 67 samples were collected. The average of abnormalities in the erythrocyte package was 40%. The storage time was of 12.25 ± 6.9 days. The Pearson correlation coefficient demonstrated correlation between the percentages of erythrocyte abnormalities and storage time. After seven days of storage 26.57% of the erythrocytes of the packages had morphological abnormalities which increased significantly in the following days. Conclusions. Red blood cells with more than seven days of storage, present significant morphologic alterations, erythrocyte abnormalities.