Platelet Transfusions

Platelet transfusions are an essential component of medical care, with around two million units transfused annually in the United States. Platelets may be needed in diverse settings such as trauma, surgery, procedures, hematologic malignancies, pregnancy, and more. Once obtained by donors, they are stored at room temperature (20–24oC) for 5–7 days. Because they are not refrigerated, such as RBC and whole blood units, platelets pose a higher bacterial contamination risk. Extra precautions to screen for such contamination may include bacterial cultures or use of pathogen-reduction technology (PRT). Additional platelet modifications are available for special patient populations to prevent reactions.